All stages prefer to feed on dogs. This tick is prevalent in houses and kennels. This tick is very prevalent in the Southeastern United States. The sexes are very different in appearance. The immature stages feed on ground-dwelling birds.
Adults attach primarily to the ears of large animals such as deer and cattle.
This tick is one of the most common ticks on humans and it has prevented the development of some areas. The female has a silvery spot on the dorsal shield. Its long mouthparts allow deep penetration of the skin, often causing pus sores. This tick is widespread in the Southeastern United States, and often is found along trails, paths and roadways. The relapsing fever tick is a soft tick, and its mouthparts are not visible from above.