Winter ticks? Yes, believe it or not, there are ticks active beyond the growing season in South Dakota. Even during the cold winter months, there is a species called the winter tick (Dermacentor albipictus) that parasitizes animals.
Also known as moose ticks or elk ticks, the primary hosts of winter ticks include moose, elk, deer, and other large wild game.
However, they can also be found on domesticated animals such as horses and cattle.
Winter ticks are most noticeable in late winter and early spring as they are fully grown by this time.
Now is a perfect time to check animals, especially horses, for winter ticks and remove any that may be present.
Winter ticks are small and only grow to about of an inch long. Females can expand to of an inch when fully engorged with blood. Adult males are mostly brown in color with a pattern of white and brown markings on their back. Adult females are also brown but have a white scutum (the area behind the head).
There is one generation of winter ticks per year. The ticks first emerge in late summer and early fall after lying dormant as eggs for most of the growing season. New hatchlings find a suitable host and remain on that animal to feed, mature, and mate during the winter. In the spring, female winter ticks drop to the ground and lay their eggs for the next generation.
Winter ticks are not considered to be a human health concern. However, they can cause issues for infested animals if present in large numbers. Signs of an infestation include anemia, hair loss, lack of appetite, and abdominal swelling. Very severe cases may result in death if left untreated.
Brushing and washing are the best ways to dislodge and remove winter ticks from an infested animal.
Insecticide sprays and pour-on treatments can also be used to treat winter ticks. Only use insecticide products that are labeled for ticks and be sure to follow the label directions.
Consult a veterinarian for more specific treatment recommendations.
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