Ticks are small insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. There are hundreds of species of ticks in the world; several species found in the United States are vectors for disease to people and pets.
Ticks can often be confused with other small pests like fleas, especially baby ticks. Use this guide to learn what ticks look like and common traits among the many species of ticks.
If you do have ticks, continue to read our guide on how to get rid of ticks, how to find ticks in your home or yard, and how to stop ticks from entering your home. .
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Ticks have a flattened oval or tear dropped shaped body before feeding and a plump, rounded body after feeding.
Immature ticks in the larvae stage have 6 legs. After feeding and maturing, they grow two additional legs for 8 legs total.
Ticks do not have wings or antennae.
Ticks range in color and marking depending on their species. See the chart below for examples of tick coloring.
Ticks can be found throughout the United States. While not every species of tick is in every state, there is at least one species of tick in each state.