All three active stages of the deer tick feed on people and pets. The next spring the larvae molt into pinhead-sized brown nymphs that feed on mice and larger animals such as dogs, deer, birds and people. In the fall they molt into adults that feed primarily on deer. These ticks are most common in wooded areas along trails. Campers and others who disturb leaf litter on the forest floor are more likely to be attacked.
Deer ticks are quite small and painless that makes detection difficult.
An adult deer tick may look like a mole or blood blister. Deer ticks may carry Lyme disease which can be serious if left untreated. In 75 percent of the cases a red circular rash develops at the site of the bite. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, and aching joints may occur and reoccur for several weeks. If not treated irregularities in heart beat, nervous system problems and arthritis may develop.