What do adult Lone Star Ticks primarily feed on?

Adult Lone Star Ticks primarily feed on birds and mammals, which is encompassed in the correct answer. This tick species has a wide host range and tends to seek out larger animals, including deer, as well as smaller mammals and various bird species. This adaptability allows them to thrive in a variety of environments, enhancing their survival and reproduction rates.

In terms of their feeding behavior, Lone Star Ticks are known to attach to their hosts for a blood meal, which is vital for the reproductive process. While they can bite humans, particularly as they venture into areas inhabited by people, their primary food sources remain birds and mammals. Understanding these feeding habits is crucial as it helps in recognizing potential areas for tick encounters and implementing preventive measures against tick-borne diseases.