Ticks Apr 2026

are specialized, blood-feeding arachnids more closely related to spiders and mites than to insects. These obligate ectoparasites require a blood meal at every stage of their life cycle to survive and develop. While small, they are among the most significant vectors of disease globally, transmitting a wider variety of pathogens—including bacteria, viruses, and parasites—than any other group of arthropods. Biology and Life Cycle

Some species, like the blacklegged tick, can live for two to three years, though they may only take three blood meals during their entire lifetime. like the blacklegged tick

Ticks undergo a complex four-stage life cycle: . like the blacklegged tick

To transition between stages, a tick must find and feed on a host. like the blacklegged tick