Tick Resources

How To Identify Ticks

Ticks come in a variety of species, but they share some common characteristics in their appearance. Typically, ticks are small arachnids with a flattened, oval-shaped body. They range in size from as small as a pinhead to larger species that can be as large as a fingernail when fully engorged with blood. Ticks have four pairs of legs, which distinguishes them from insects that have only three pairs. Their coloration can vary, with some ticks being reddish-brown, while others are darker shades like black or gray. Ticks also have a tough, leathery exoskeleton that provides protection and a shield-like appearance. Notably, when ticks are feeding on a host, they become engorged and may appear swollen and more rounded.