CINCINNATI (FOX19) - A tick found in Gallia County has been confirmed to be the exotic Asian longhorned tick, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA).
The Asian longhorned tick was found on a stray dog from Gallia County before being taken to a shelter in Canal Winchester, the ODA says.
The female version of this tick can reproduce without a male, according to ODA State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Forshey.
“Due to the nature of this pest, the female ticks can reproduce without a male, so it only takes one tick to create an established population in a new location,” said Forshey. “This pest is especially fatal to livestock, so producers should practice preventative measures and be on the lookout for this new threat.”
Asian longhorned ticks are light brown and very small.
The ODA says these ticks are hard to find and carry pathogens that cause disease in humans and livestock.
The Asian longhorned tick has been found around counties that have a large horse, cattle, and sheep populations, the ODA said.
Farmers are encouraged to check their livestock for ticks regularly, per the ODA.
If you find an unusual looking tick, you should call ODA’s Division of Animal Health at 614-728-6220.
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