Ticks

Ticks are small arachnids. They tend to flourish more in warm, humid climates because they require a certain amount of moisture. The ecosystem must satisfy two requirements: the population density of host species in the area must be high enough and the humidity must be high enough for ticks to remain hydrated.

Ticks satisfy all of their nutritional requirements on a diet of blood, a practice known as hematophagy. They find their host by detecting animals’ breath and body odors, or by sensing body heat, moisture and vibrations. They are incapable of flying or jumping.