What does a facial tick look like? - briefly
A facial tick is a tiny, oval parasite, typically reddish‑brown or dark brown, with a clear or whitish engorged abdomen after feeding. It may be partially concealed by hair or skin folds, with its legs visible near the front.
What does a facial tick look like? - in detail
A facial tick is a small arachnid that attaches to the skin of the face, typically near the hairline, cheeks, or around the eyes. The adult form measures 2–5 mm in length, with a rounded, flattened body and a distinct dorsal shield (scutum) that may be brown, reddish‑brown, or dark gray depending on species. The ventral side is softer, with a small mouthpart (capitulum) that protrudes slightly when feeding.
Key visual characteristics include:
- Body shape: Oval, slightly wider than long, smooth contour without obvious legs when engorged.
- Coloration: Uniform hue or subtle mottling; some species display a lighter dorsal patch.
- Eyes: Two pairs of eyes positioned on the anterior surface, giving a characteristic “four‑eye” appearance.
- Mouthparts: A short, beak‑like structure that may be visible as a tiny protrusion near the center of the dorsal shield.
- Engorgement: After feeding, the tick expands dramatically, becoming balloon‑like and changing color to a darker, more translucent shade.
When attached, the tick’s legs are tucked against the body, rendering them difficult to see without magnification. The surrounding skin may show a small puncture mark, occasionally surrounded by a faint red halo caused by irritation or mild inflammation.