engorged lone star tick nymph
The larva, nymph (shown here, engorged), and adult of the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) have piercing mouthparts that they use to draw blood from animals. A bite to a human can cause itching and burning welts, as well as other allergic reactions, and may also transmit disease-causing pathogens that can cause illness and, if left untreated, death. (Photo by Ilia Rochlin, Ph.D.)