Deer Tick

Ixodes scapularis

no photo — written note
photo: Wikimedia Commons
Insects

Small dark tick with reddish body; the Lyme disease carrier.

Field facts
HabitatWoodland leaf litter, tall grass edges
RangeStatewide, increasing
When to lookNymphs May to July; adults autumn and spring
StatusCommon (Indiana DNR / IUCN Red List)
Look-alikesAmerican Dog Tick, Lone Star Tick

Field note: Removing one within 24 hours greatly reduces infection risk.

Lesson
Watching responsibly

Tuck trousers into socks, treat gear, and check thoroughly after every hike.

Transmits Lyme disease; remove with fine tweezers straight out.

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