Size
1/4”
Color
Dark reddish brown
Description
The American Dog Tick is prolific in wooded areas where pre-adults feed on small rodents and the adults use the forest animals as hosts. Adults climb up shrubbery and wait for a host to walk by. They cannot fly or jump so they must cling to a host when it brushes past.
Females have a silver spot on their head and swell to about 1/2” when engorged. Males and females will drop off their host after feeding, and the female will lay thousands of eggs.
The American Dog Tick is often called the Wood Tick and is the most common species of tick in the US and is a transmitter of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease.
Control Advice
Avoid dense forest areas and inspect your pets and yourself after leaving any wooded area. If hiking outdoors wear a hat, long sleeves and long pants in light colors so ticks are easier to find.
Active Seasons
The American Dog Tick is most active in spring and summer.