Deer ticks are significantly smaller than the average tick. This makes them extremely hard to spot, even as full-grown adults. The female deer ticks are approximately sesame seed size, 1/6th to 1/8th of an inch in length, and brown, with a red abdomen. Deer tick males are brown and slightly smaller than the females.
In earlier life stages, deer ticks are even smaller. Nymph stage deer ticks are the size of a poppy seed. They can appear as a speck on the body of a host. With these sizes as guide, you can identify deer ticks and take precautions to prevent them, knowing what to look for.
Deer ticks are most active in the months from April to September. Protect yourself if you are outdoors in area where deer ticks are abundant, and be vigilant. Use repellants that contain DEET, which will help keep deer ticks off of you. Make sure your clothing is light-colored and of a tight weave. This will help you spot ticks easily.
Deer ticks will crawl on to a host and will head towards a crease or fold in the skin. On humans, they will seek out the backs of knees or insides of elbows. The deer ticks will then insert their mouthparts and find a source of blood to feed on. This can take a long time. Most deer ticks will not begin transmitting diseases until 45 minutes after they have bitten, so frequent checks in these areas of your body can be effective.
If you have a pet that you take hiking with you, be sure to check them as diligently. Use a metal fine-tooth comb and get close to the skin when grooming.