Gulf Coast Tick
Amblyomma maculatum
Moderate Risk Risk
Known to transmit: Rickettsia parkeri (a milder spotted fever), Heartwater (in animals)
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About
Found along the Atlantic coast and Gulf states. Adults primarily bite deer and other wildlife but will bite humans. Can transmit a form of spotted fever. Expanding its range northward.
Appearance
Brown with silver-white ornate markings (adults)
Size
Adult female: 4mm unfed
Habitat & Range
Habitat
Coastal prairies, grasslands, woodland edges
Region
Gulf coast states, expanding up the Atlantic coast
Peak Season
Adults: August–November. Immatures: spring–summer.
Life Stages
Larva (< 1mm)
Feeds on birds and small mammals.
Nymph (1–2mm)
Found on ground-feeding birds.
Adult (4mm)
Ornate silver markings. Resembles dog tick.
Safety Tips
- 1.Often mistaken for American dog tick due to similar markings
- 2.If bitten, watch for eschar (dark scab) at bite site — a sign of Rickettsia parkeri
- 3.Usually causes milder illness than Rocky Mountain spotted fever