Ixodes brunneus

Scientific Name: Ixodes brunneus

Common Name: None

Description: Adult females are about 1/8 inch long and adult males are slightly smaller. After feeding, adult females can increase in size to 1/2 inch or more.

Habitat/Range: Ixodes brunneus can be found in the eastern United States as far west as Wisconsin and Texas, but primarily along the coast. They have also been found along the Pacific Coast in Oregon and California. Ixodes brunneus is rarely found in Maine.

Life Cycle/Hosts: All three active life stages (larva, nymph, and adult) feed primarily on birds. They are typically found on migratory birds, though have also been found on other types of birds including turkeys. Little is known about this species’ life cycle or its impact on wild bird populations.

Medical/Veterinary Importance: Ixodes brunneus has been associated with avian tick paralysis in wild birds. Tick paralysis is characterized by ascending paralysis (starting from the feet and progressing up the body) and can ultimately result in death of the bird.