Asian Longhorned Tick Guide for Cattle Producers
Asian longhorned ticks are a growing concern for cattle producers in more than 25 states. The invasive species can rapidly multiply and infest cattle, transmitting Theileria orientalis Ikeda, a blood parasite that causes weight loss, decreased milk production, reduced fertility and even death. With no vaccines or approved treatments currently available, cattle producers should work closely with their veterinarians to implement tick control measures and monitor herd health.
A single tick can start an infestation, and the parasite it carries stays in your herd forever. Now in 27 states, the invasive tick is reshaping how producers manage herd health — here’s what experts want you to know.
Since first being detected in New Jersey in 2017, the Asian longhorn tick has spread through more than 20 states. Today marks the first identification in Kansas.
Understanding the tick’s threat and its associated pathogen is key to implementing proactive management strategies to protect your cow herd.
Native to east Asia, the ALHT was first detected in New Jersey in 2017. Since then, it has spread to more than 20 states with recent confirmations in Illinois, Michigan and Iowa.
A tick found in a Boone County cattle herd has been confirmed as the invasive Asian longhorned tick, known for carrying a parasite that can be deadly to cattle.