The lone star tick is a type of tick commonly found in the southeastern and eastern United States. It is named for the distinctive white spot on its back, resembling a lone star. These ticks are known to thrive in wooded areas and grassy fields, where they wait for hosts to pass by. Lone star ticks are active during warmer months and can attach to humans and animals. They are known to transmit diseases, including Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI) and alpha-gal syndrome, which can cause allergic reactions to red meat. Proper tick prevention measures are essential when spending time outdoors.