USDA/APHIS image by James Gathany, CDC
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has announced that an invasive tick has been detected within the state. The Asian Longhorn tick was detected on a dog in DeKalb County, adding to the reports of the pest in 24 eastern states.
According to the Department, “The Asian Longhorn tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) is native to eastern Asia but was first confirmed in the United States by the USDA in 2017. This tick alternates between hosts and the environment, feeding on humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. It is a confirmed vector of Theileria orientalis (a significant livestock pathogen) and can also transmit Rickettsia rickettsii (Rocky Mountain spotted fever) and Heartland virus.”
The Asian Longhorn Tick is extremely small and light brown in color and female ticks can reproduce without mating with laying 1,000 to 2,000 eggs at a time.
According to the Department, “Farmers should regularly inspect livestock for ticks, especially on the head and neck, as well as the flanks, back, armpits, groin, and under the tail. Larvae, nymphs, and adults may be present on the same animal. Animals showing low weight gain, lethargy, anemia, patchy hair coat, or poor condition should be checked closely. Even a few ticks can transmit disease. Preventive measures include keeping grass and weeds trimmed, clearing brush, and using acaricides. Unusual or heavy infestations should be reported to your veterinarian, local extension agent, diagnostic lab for species identification, and to the State Veterinarian’s Office (334-240-7255).”
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet