In 2017, the invasive longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) (LHT) was found on a sheep farm in New Jersey. Since then, it has expanded its range into 21 states and D.C. LHT has been found as far north as Rensselaer County (2021), the farthest north the tick has been found. Only females have been found as LHT can clone themselves, meaning that a single female can quickly result in a large population.

Longhorn Tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis)

LHT is a major threat to livestock and possibly some species of wildlife. LHT occur at extremely high numbers when they infest livestock and wildlife, including cases where LHT have bled cows to death. There are cases of LHT vectoring bovine theileriosis, a cattle disease, in the U.S.

Source: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/cattle/ticks/asian-longhorned/asian-longhorned-tick-what-you-need-know

Efforts have been made to assess the extent of LHT in New York through active surveillance. To bolster those efforts, we are asking those that own livestock, from producers to 4H club members, to report any suspected LHT on their farms at go.nysipm.org/report-lht. The form includes a few questions and allows you to upload a photograph of the tick. New York State Integrated Pest Management staff will follow up with you within a few days.

In an effort to keep the focus on livestock owners, we request that the reporting page not be shared with the general public.

If you have any questions, contact Joellen Lampman, Community IPM Extension Support Specialist, at jkz6@cornell.edu.