Scientific Name

Amblyomma americanum

 

Habitat

A pest of livestock and wildlife. All life stages readily attack humans. This is probably the tick most often encountered by people during recreational activities in Oklahoma. Ticks will await a host along trails and pathways. This tick is known to transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Human Ehrlichiosis, Tularemia, and American Q fever. 

 

Life Cycle

Active from early spring to late fall. The females is capable of laying 9-12,000 eggs. 

 

Description

This tick is about 1/8 inch long and is dark brown. The tick receives its name from the lone white spot on the dorsal shield of the female. The male has nonconnected white markings around its posterior margin. Mouthparts are long compared to most other ticks. 

 

Control

Please contact your local county extension office for current information.