[stupidboy]

Good point about the size. Unengorged nymph ticks are tough to spot. That's why most people don't notice them until after multiple days of feeding. The adults are much easier to catch early, and thus pose less of a threat.

For storage, a Ziplock bag works well (especially for mailing). Just make sure it's sealed air tight. A prescription pill bottle works great too because of the secure lid.