Stillwater, Oklahoma – Cattle producers should be aware that there are dangerous mites in the U.S., according to researchers at Oklahoma State University.
Dr. Jonathan Cammack, an assistant professor and extension specialist in livestock, entomology, and parasitology, explained to Nexstar’s KFOR that these mites can be very prevalent on a single cow, potentially leading to significant blood loss and even death.
He noted that the Asian longhorned tick, also referred to as alto, hails from East Asia and first appeared in the U.S. about a decade ago. Since then, it has been identified in various states, including Arkansas, Illinois, and New York, among others.
Last year, this tick was discovered in Oklahoma, specifically in a cattle case in Craig County.
Dr. Cammack pointed out that these ticks are quite small—about half the size of the typical ticks we tend to encounter—and lack the distinct bright white spot that’s often associated with other types. They are also particularly adept at reproducing.
“They can reproduce asexually, which eliminates the complication of needing a mate,” Dr. Cammack explained. A single female can lay as many as 2,500 eggs on one animal, which is concerning as it allows them to consume enough blood to become deadly.
Currently, there’s ongoing research at the Veterinary School focusing on gathering and testing these suspected Asian longhorned ticks to check for a harmful pathogen known as the Ikeda genotype of Orientalis, which poses risks to cattle.
This year, researchers are searching for new cases and are hoping that Oklahoma ranchers will assist them in monitoring. Dr. Cammack suggests checking animals regularly—probably twice a year—rather than daily for ticks.
If any ticks are found, contacting a local veterinarian is recommended. Ranchers in established regions may also want to take additional preventative measures.
