← Back to Tick Species
What does a western blacklegged tick look like from above?
This magnified dorsal photograph shows an adult female western blacklegged tick; real-world identification may require an expert.
Reviewed by VuxLore® Knowledge Team For People
Short answer
At a glance
Key takeaways
Visible identification features
The image shows a magnified adult female Ixodes pacificus. The scutum covers only part of the dorsal surface, leaving the abdomen able to expand during feeding.
Use photographs cautiously
Scale, geography, life stage and underside features may be needed. Preserve a removed tick safely if local guidance recommends identification.