
Pacific Coast Tick
Uncover the tiny bloodsuckers making big waves in nature!

The Basics
Scientific Name
Dermacentor occidentalis
Conservation Status
Not evaluated
Location
Africa
Average size
3 to 5 millimeters long
diet
Blood from mammals, birds, reptiles
lifespan
1 to 3 years
Let’s Explore
Overview
The Pacific Coast Tick, known scientifically as Dermacentor occidentalis, belongs to the class Arachnida. These tiny critters may only measure between 3 to 5 millimeters long, but they pack a punch in the world of bloodsucking invertebrates!
Like all ticks, the Pacific Coast Tick has a diet focused on blood from mammals, birds, and reptiles. They are like the tiny vampires of the animal kingdom, sipping on their hosts for nourishment.
These ticks can live for 1 to 3 years, so they know how to stick around! They wisely wait for animals to pass by before jumping on for a tasty meal.
Pacific Coast Ticks thrive in Africa, soaking up the sun while they search for a meal. They prefer grassy areas where potential hosts roam, making it a ticking paradise for them!
Ticks may not be the cutest creatures, but they play an important role in the ecosystem. They help keep animal populations in check by contributing to the food web as both hosts and prey.
Where can you find a Pacific Coast Tick in the wild?
What does a Pacific Coast Tick eat?
How big can a Pacific Coast Tick grow?
How long does a Pacific Coast Tick typically live?
What is the conservation status of the Pacific Coast Tick?
What are the main threats to the Pacific Coast Tick?
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