Dorsal view
Check the mouthparts, shield-like scutum, body outline, leg arrangement and any ornamentation.
Photograph the whole tick from directly above and include a scale.
Tick identification
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Visual identification guide
Look at structure, not colour alone
Tick identification may require magnification and regional expertise. These diagrams show the features specialists examine; they do not confirm a species from a photograph.
Underside view
The anal groove, genital opening and ventral plates can be important diagnostic characters.
Do not force or damage a specimen merely to obtain this view.
Life stages
Size and engorgement alter appearance. Larvae have six legs; nymphs and adults have eight.
A photograph alone may not provide enough detail for species confirmation.Important: Colour, size or host alone cannot reliably identify every tick. Do not delay medical or veterinary advice while seeking identification.
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Medical and veterinary information
Information in the VuxLore® Tick Knowledge Centre is provided for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice. Seek advice from a qualified doctor, veterinarian or other appropriate healthcare professional if you are concerned about a tick bite, symptoms, illness, or the health of an animal.
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