It remains close to areas frequented by dogs, including kennels, sheds, barns and other buildings. Nymphs often congregate at the bottom of building walls. This tick can complete its life cycle in about two months, so there may be multiple generations. It is a vector of canine babesiosis, canine ehrlichiosis, and probably Salmonella entoritches . Larvae and nymphs are found on small animals or birds.
Adults usually parasitize larger animals such as deer, cattle, or horses.
It is generally found only in the southeast corner of Nebraska and is rare even there. Occasionally it is reported in western Nebraska, usually on horses or cattle that originated in Wyoming. Its habitat is generally upland meadows or woods in mountainous areas. This tick attaches to the host animal as a seed tick and remains attached throughout its life. The ticks are generally found on animals only during winter.