The length of time a tick stays attached depends on the tick species, tick life stage and the host immunity. It also depends on whether you do a daily tick check. Generally if undisturbed, larvae remain attached and feeding for about 3 days, nymphs for 3-4 days, and adult females for 7-10 days. Deer ticks feed a day or so faster than Lone Star ticks and American dog ticks. You might be interested in our tick growth comparison pictures; ticks change their appearance pretty dramatically as they feed which can make identifying them challenging.
Host immunity also can impact duration of tick attachment as well. Prior sensitization to specific proteins in tick saliva can make it harder for ticks to ingest blood. Sometimes it causes them to stay attached a bit longer but more commonly, it makes the host itch and frequently the tick is removed by the scratching.
I have a pup that has been treated for tics but has had one on her nose for a week.
It’s seemingly gorged but doesn’t fall off. Is there anything I can do?
I noticed an Australian Shellback (paralysis tick) on the eyebrow of an Australian Magpie. It has gotten slowly bigger & has been attached for over 2 weeks. I have been trying to catch it to remove it but the magpie is too fast. I hand feed them & have built up a trust between us. I don’t want to jeopardise our bond. Thought he would have scratched it off by now. Magpie has a huge lump where the tick has burrowed in.
Help me please !! I have had a tic inside my leg since October!!! It hides underneath the skin. Completely and comes out only for oxygen. Why is it still there. I have tried so many times to remove it. I have been to the hospital, the docs and I feel like none of them believe me!! I have been tested for Tick deseases but so far all negative.
That is NOT a tick. Ticks do not live underneath skin nor hibernate. Ticks breathe about once an hour, so that would definitely not be feasible. We recommend you go see a physician about your issue. Again, 100% NOT a tick! Good luck!