Which tick is primarily found in overgrown lots and hiking trails?

The American Dog Tick is primarily found in environments such as overgrown lots and hiking trails. This tick prefers habitats that are grassy, bushy, or heavily vegetated, which makes areas like these ideal for its existence. American Dog Ticks are commonly encountered in open areas, where they can easily attach to passing hosts like dogs or humans.

These ticks are known to be active during warmer months, particularly in spring and early summer, which aligns with when hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are more likely to be on trails. Additionally, they are responsible for transmitting diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia, making awareness of their habitats important for public health.

The other ticks mentioned are associated with different environments or have different host preferences. For example, the Lone Star Tick is often found in wooded areas and on animals like deer; the Groundhog Tick is associated closely with groundhogs and their burrows; and the Blacklegged "Deer" Tick is primarily found in woodland environments, especially in areas with high deer populations. Understanding the specific habitats and behaviors of these ticks helps in both prevention and control strategies in vector management.