Lone Star Tick
(Ambylomma americanum)
Lone Star Tick Characteristics
The Lone star tick goes by many names, such as the northeastern water tick and the turkey tick. An adult lone star tick is brown to reddish-brown in color with a white, star shaped spot on its back, which is where the name comes from. Adults are about 1/8 inch long and have aggressive host-seeking behavior, actively searching for hosts by climbing tall grass or vegetation.
What Are Some Lone Star Tick Behaviors?
Lone Star Ticks are known for their aggressive host-seeking behavior, which means that they actively search for hosts, such as humans, pets, and wildlife, to feed on. When they find a suitable host, they quickly attach and begin feeding, often for several days.
Are Lone Star Ticks Dangerous?
During this time, they can transmit diseases, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, to their hosts. Some people who have been bitten by a Lone Star Tick may also develop an allergy to red meat, a condition known as alpha-gal syndrome. Overall, Lone Star Ticks are a potential health concern and it is important to take precautions to prevent tick bites when spending time in tick-infested areas.
