Life cycle from egg to adult lasts more than one year. Commonly found in the bedding/resting areas of deer and cattle, especially in chaparral under oaks and brush. Larvae feed on the host for up to 9 days, nymphs about 1 1/2 hours, and adults no more than 50 minutes. Nymphs have seven instars, each requiring a blood meal.

Hosts include cattle, deer, and most warm blooded animals. Humans are accidental hosts.

No diseases known to be carried by this species. Bites tend to cause severe responses in humans ranging from painful inflammatory wounds to severe allergic reactions.