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
Ticks undergo a complex four-stage life cycle: . Biology and Life Cycle Ticks undergo a complex
Ticks typically thrive in shady, moist environments such as wooded areas, tall grass, and leaf litter. Types of Ticks (with pictures of ticks) - LymeDisease.org moist environments such as wooded areas
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