When an Ohio farmer found several dead cows on his property, he was shocked to learn that the ticks covering their bodies were an invasive species.
But what does this discovery mean for you?
Today, we’re uncovering all the details of this icky incident to bring you everything you need to know about Asian longhorned ticks.
Let’s dig in!
Invasive Asian Longhorned Ticks Threaten Livestock
People and animals in the Eastern US are facing a frightening new insect. Asian longhorned ticks, also called ALTs, are an invasive species first noted in the country in 2017. Today, at least 19 states have confirmed cases.
In 2021, a farmer in Ohio discovered three dead cows on his property. Upon inspection, he realized they were covered in tiny ticks. He called in authorities, who collected over 9,000 of them in about 90 minutes, using only a dropcloth and a lint roller. Those experts later wrote an article about the incident for the Journal of Medical Entomology.
This was the first known sighting of the creatures in Ohio.
Kevin Lahmers, a representative of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, said in a statement, “The reason that people are following the ticks so aggressively is because of concern for public health, not just animal health.”
What Is an Asian Longhorned Tick?
The scientific name for these critters is Haemaphysalis longicornis. They’re reddish-brown and about the size of a poppyseed when hungry. But when fully engorged, they turn gray and grow to the circumference of a pea. As adults, they’re oval in shape and have eight legs. But their small size makes it hard to distinguish them from similar species unless you’re a pro.
These invasive ticks aren’t your average creepy crawlies. In fact, they have abilities that sound like something from a science fiction novel.
They reproduce asexually, so a solitary female introduced to a new habitat can create a whole new population. She might lay as many as 2,000 eggs each time she clones herself. And that’s not all. Compared to native species, it takes less time for ALTs to complete their life cycle. That means they reproduce quickly and are more likely to adapt to adverse conditions.
In other words, they’re super ticks.
Ticks aren’t the only issue: 10 Most Dangerous Bugs in the USA.
Where Are These Insects Found?
Although they’re native to East Asia, these invasive ticks are now spreading throughout the US. Practically every state along the eastern seaboard from Massachusetts to Georgia has identified them within their borders. So far, they’ve moved as far westward as Missouri and Arkansas.
Experts blame a combination of livestock and wild animals for the spread. After all, it’s common to haul cattle from state to state. So, once an Asian longhorned tick latches onto a meal, there’s no telling where its journey may end.
ALTs mainly live in grassy or wooded areas and may attach to livestock, wildlife, pets, and humans. As opportunists, they often find tall grass stalks and position themselves with their arms outstretched, waiting for their next unsuspecting victim to brush past them. They’ll grab onto fur or a pants leg and make their way to the skin.
These insects also like to hang out under leaf litter, where they can stay hidden and protected from the elements.
Discover How to Easily Keep Ticks Out of Your Lawn This Year!
Why Are Asian Longhorned Ticks Such a Threat?
The jury is still out on the exact cause of death for the unfortunate cattle in Ohio. Some believe the tick infestation drained them of so much blood they couldn’t function. However, others think it’s a mix of anemia and diseases spread by the nits.
Because these cases are rare, researchers haven’t had many opportunities to study the phenomenon.
You probably already know that ticks are vectors for disease. When they suck the blood of an infected animal, they pass along illnesses to their next victims. Furthermore, their saliva may inherently contain dangerous compounds.
One study found that they’re unlikely to transmit Lyme disease. But another asserts they can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever. While scientists know they can carry anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and rickettsiosis, it’s unclear whether they can pass them to humans.
Finally, their ability to clone themselves and rapidly reproduce means their populations can skyrocket before we’re able to respond.
For now, it seems they pose the most significant threat to livestock. In addition to diseases and blood loss, they can cause a major drop in milk production, which can be deadly for calves and devastating for farmers.
How to Protect Yourself From Asian Longhorned Ticks
There are several ways to protect against Asian longhorned ticks. The first is prevention. Keeping your grass cut short gives them fewer places to hide. They enjoy areas with overgrown vegetation, so taming your landscape will force them to look elsewhere.
Consider building a fence around your property. By keeping larger animals such as deer, foxes, raccoons, and possums off your land, you also reduce the risk of these critters bringing in unwanted guests.
While pesticides can kill these invasive ticks, they must have direct contact with the substance. Because they often live under leaf litter, spraying your yard with chemicals isn’t always effective.
However, bug spray can be a big help. Before heading off for your next outdoor adventure, spray yourself with insect repellent containing at least 20% DEET. This should make your skin less appetizing to the tiny pests. Also, wear long sleeves and pants so they can’t reach your body.
Keeping pets up to date on their flea and tick medication will help ensure they don’t become the next meal for one of these creatures.
Next, perform a thorough tick check when you’ve been out in nature. Strip down and look over every part of your body, especially your scalp and any crevices where they could burrow.
Because their saliva contains a numbing compound, you likely won’t even feel the initial bite. That’s why visual inspections are essential.
Lastly, it’s important to report any ALT sightings to the proper authorities.
If one of these insects latches onto you or your pets, remove it as quickly as possible. Use tweezers and ensure you get the head, which they can bury into the skin. Place it into a jar or zip-top bag with rubbing alcohol and take it to your veterinarian or health department for identification.
These haven’t been shown to prevent ALTs yet, but they seem to be effective on the more common ticks in the US: Thermacell Tick Control Tubes for Yards.
Don’t Let These Insects Bug You
Invasive ticks are no laughing matter. Unfortunately, it appears they’re here to stay.
However, there’s no need to panic. While Asian longhorned ticks pose a threat to livestock and other animals, as far as we can tell, they’re no more dangerous to humans than any other species.
Of course, it’s always wise to watch out for hazardous creatures in the great outdoors, but with a little knowledge and preparation, there’s nothing to fear!
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