Ticks are parasitic spiders that bite warm-blooded animals. Seven species of ticks exist in the United States. Ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme and ehrlichiosis. Disease transmission risk increases with longer tick attachment
Dermacentor reticulatus is a hard tick with exceptional survival and reproduction abilities. Males reach 4.2-4.8 mm, females 3.8-4.2 mm when unfed. Can survive under water for several months and withstand temperatures down to -10°C. Can complete its life cycle within a year or two years without feeding
Rhipicephalus sanguineus is the most widespread tick worldwide. Can complete up to four generations per year. Highly adapted to indoor living and can survive outdoors. Can complete up to four generations per year under favorable conditions
European hard-bodied tick reaching 11 mm when engorged. No eyes, festoons, or ornate features. Males 2.4-2.8 mm, females 3.0-3.6 mm before feeding
Insects comprise 6-10 million species, representing over half of all living organisms. Human contact with insects is unavoidable. Bites are mouthparts, stings are sharp organs for defense
TickZoo is an interactive educational platform about ticks and diseases. Created by scientists and educators to raise awareness about tick risks. Provides comprehensive information about tick species and diseases