Producers Urged To Stay Alert For Cattle Ticks

Cattle wandering by the road in Hinchinbrook. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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North Queensland cattle producers are being urged to keep a close eye on their herds as warmer temperatures and increasing moisture create favourable conditions for cattle ticks to survive and spread.

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The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is warning that conditions this spring and summer, combined with a warmer-than-average winter across much of Queensland, could increase the risk of cattle tick infestations.

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Cattle ticks can affect livestock productivity and animal health, while also transmitting the blood parasites responsible for tick fever. Early detection and proactive management are important to protecting herds and reducing the risk to farm businesses.

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Producers should regularly inspect cattle and other animals that can carry cattle ticks. These include buffalo, bison, deer, horses, sheep, goats and camelids. Newly introduced livestock should be isolated and checked for ticks before being mixed with the existing herd.

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The DPI recommends producers:

• Regularly inspect livestock for signs of cattle ticks.

• Isolate and check incoming stock before introducing them to the herd.

• Review and update their property biosecurity plan.

• Check and maintain stock-proof boundary fences to help prevent ticks entering the property.

• Conduct regular manual inspections and strengthen on-farm biosecurity measures.

• Use appropriate tick control strategies if operating within the cattle tick-infested zone. These may include planned chemical treatments or introducing tick-resistant breeds.

• Vaccinate animals against tick fever.

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If tick fever is suspected, producers should contact their veterinarian immediately.

Queensland has designated cattle tick zones, with different legal requirements applying to livestock movement. Producers should understand which zone their property is in and check the requirements before moving susceptible livestock.

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Importantly, anyone who suspects cattle ticks are present in the cattle tick-free zone must notify Biosecurity Queensland.

With conditions expected to favour tick activity in the coming months, producers are encouraged to review their biosecurity plans and remain vigilant.

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For further information about cattle tick management, treatment and livestock movement requirements, visit the Queensland Department of Primary Industries website at dpi.qld.gov.au or contact Biosecurity Queensland for advice.

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