Ticks are surprisingly more closely related to spiders than to insects. Their bodies vary in color from reddish-brown to black. Some species have special markings that are important for identification.
These eight-legged parasites also have special mouthparts (called chelicerae) and a barbed feeding tube (or hypostome). This works like a biological harpoon, helping them grip tightly into their host's skin.
How big are ticks?
After a blood meal, an adult tick can balloon up to 600% its original size. An engorged female can reach the size of a grape (up to 15mm), making her body appear grotesquely swollen.
This growth happens because of their stretchy exoskeleton, which expands to fit their blood meal.
Ticks go through the changes in size during their life cycle, and include:
- Eggs: Microscopic clusters (0.5mm)
- Larvae: Poppy seed-sized (0.5-1mm) with only six legs
- Nymphs: Sesame seed-sized (1-2mm) with eight legs
- Adults: Apple seed-sized when unfed (3-5mm)
How big are ticks in Southampton (and what do they look like)?
Some of the most common types of ticks you may encounter include:
- Black-legged ticks: Reddish-brown body with distinctive black legs. Adults 3-5mm (unfed).
- Brown dog ticks: Uniformly reddish-brown, elongated body. Adults are 3-12mm when engorged.
- American dog ticks: Brown with ornate white/gray markings (called festoons). Largest common tick, adults 5-15mm when engorged.
- Lone star ticks: Females sport a distinctive white dot; males have scattered white streaks. Adults 3-4mm (unfed)
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What do ticks look like on humans?
Ticks are strategic parasites and target warm, moist areas on your body. These spots have blood vessels close to the skin.
Their favorite human hideouts include behind the ears, along the hairline, armpits, groin area, behind knees and between toes, waistband, belly button, and scalp (especially in children).
What do ticks look like on dogs?
Dogs with thick fur provide perfect camouflage for these parasites. Our canine companions face similar risks, with ticks favoring:
- Inside and around ears
- Between toes and paw pads
- Under the collar
- Armpits and groin
- Along the back, neck, and tail base
Make sure to run your fingers through your dog's coat, feeling for small bumps that could be attached to ticks.
When You See Ticks
Personal protection and early tick identification are important, but professional tick control services provide a better solution. Tick control services can remove ticks from your property, helping lower the risk of tick bites and the spread of diseases.