Ixodes pacificus is a species of tick commonly found along the western coast of North America. It primarily inhabits wooded and grassy areas, where it feeds on the blood of various mammals, birds, and reptiles. This tick is known for its role as a vector for several diseases, including Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. The life cycle of Ixodes pacificus includes four stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Each stage requires a blood meal to progress to the next. These ticks are most active during the spring and fall, making them a concern for outdoor enthusiasts and pet owners in affected regions.