Victims of mosquito bites itch because of an allergic reaction to the mosquito’s spit.

Hard ticks are primarily a human parasite.

Fleas were the chief agent transmitting the Black Death in the Middle Ages.

Horse flies can suck three ounces or more of blood a day from a host.

The nickname no-see-ums for biting midges is inaccurate since the insects often reach several inches long.

Mites live in a wide range of habitats, including brackish water, fresh water, hot springs, soil, plants, and (as parasites) animals, including humans.