Haemaphysalis: New Zealand Cattle Tick, Rabbit Tick, Bird Tick.

General Description: Wingless, flattened insect, 3.4 to 4.8mm long and fairly broad with mouth parts adapted for sucking. The nose referred to in the name is actually a short head. The legs have claws at the end which are used for hanging onto hair.

Life Cycle: Typical life cycle of lice takes 1 month.

Location: Most often found on protected areas of skin: side of neck, brisket, back, head, and between the legs.

Geographical Distribution: Widely distributed throughout the world.

Significance: In addition to annoying cattle, species of Haemaphysalis may transmit cattle tick fever, anaplasmosis, and Q fever. Paralysis may also occur.

Effects on Host: Ticks irritate the host, causing tick worry (scratching, rubbing and licking), decreased feed intake, and unthriftiness. Blood sucking of large infestations may bring on tick anaemia. Theileria spp., some Babesiaspp. and Q-Fever can be transmitted by Haemaphysalis ticks.

Diagnostic Information: Lice may be seen on skin.

Control: Insecticides in various preparations are effective.

Seed ticks on grass blade