Ticks: The Major Types and Their Effects

Ticks are a small insect, often referred to as a mite, which can be quite bothersome and even mildly dangerous. Ticks are the second largest transporter of many diseases, second only to the mosquito. Ticks can be hard, with a stiff outer shell, or soft, with a permeable outer membrane. It is important to note that both types of ticks carry their own unique traits and diseases.

The most common species of ticks found in North America are:

• The American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis) - This is a small, almost spidery looking tick with prevailing front claws. It usually has a dark body with lighter accents and striping. If you were to place a full grown adult female beside a dime, it would be approximately 1/4 the length of the dime. The male tick is slightly smaller than the female tick.
• The Deer Tick (Ixodes scapularis) - The deer tick is one of the smallest, and in comparison to a dime, it is about 1/5 the length. It is noted for its mostly solid body color, though the females often have a two-toned appearance on their abdomen. The female deer ticks are about the same size as a male dog tick.
• The Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum) - A true cowboy, the lone star tick is of average size when compared with other ticks. It is generally larger than the deer tick, and its body color is also lighter and easier to see. In comparison to a dime, a female long star tick is about 1/4 the length, and it is larger than a male lone star tick.

These three ticks are the major transporters of relapsing fever, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, equine encephalitis, Colorado tick fever, and several forms of ehrlichiosis. In fact, it is estimated that around 80% of all cases of Lyme disease in Northeastern America are the direct result of tick bites.