Lone Star Tick
A female Lone Star Tick looking for a meal.
The female is identified by the single white spot on her back. They are found throughout the southeastern, eastern and south central United States. The CDC says that the Lone Star Tick does not cause Lyme Disease. It is said that the Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick) causes Lyme Disease.
Ticks are found almost everywhere in Tennessee. They are especially found in the woods, tall grass and any place that animals are.
The Lone Star Tick is said to be very aggressive. I put my finger on this leaf and this tick followed it, constantly reaching, trying to latch on.
You can tell that it has not yet fed by how flat it is (see 2nd photo).
Ticks burrow their "snout" below the skin to feed on blood.
It's best to use a product that contains DEET. We found that the brand "Repel" works the best.