Questing

Pronunciation: /KWES-ting/

Category: Behavior

Singular: Questing

Plural: Questings

Definition

A behavior exhibited by ticks where they climb vegetation and extend their front legs to latch onto a host passing by.

Etymology

Derived from the verb 'quest,' meaning to search or seek.

Example

Questing behavior is commonly observed in Ixodes scapularis, the black-legged tick, as it waits for a potential host.

Synonyms

Host-seeking

Related Terms

Tick
Host
Parasite
Climbing

Usage Notes

Questing is an essential behavior for ticks to find a host for feeding and it primarily occurs during favorable environmental conditions like high humidity.