What specific species of tick is commonly found near urban construction sites?

The lone star tick is indeed commonly found near urban construction sites. This species of tick thrives in areas that are disturbed or cleared, which are typical conditions around construction sites. As these areas are often characterized by the presence of shrubs, grass, and wildlife, they provide a hospitable environment for ticks to inhabit. Lone star ticks are known for their aggressive feeding behavior, and their presence in urban settings can pose a risk of transmitting diseases to humans and pets.

In contrast, the black-legged tick typically prefers wooded and leaf-litter areas rather than urban landscapes, while the dog tick is more commonly found in grassy fields and wooded areas as well. The western black-legged tick is primarily located in the western United States and is less associated with urban construction environments. Thus, the characteristics of the lone star tick align with the question regarding its prevalence around urban construction zones.