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Asian Longhorn tick found in Southwest Michigan

Asian Longhorn ticks have been confirmed for the first time in Michigan at a state park near Indiana.

Two nymphs were found through routine tick surveillance by Calvin University at Grand Mere State Park in Berrien County, less than 30 miles from the Indiana state line.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development says the impact on livestock, specifically cattle, is a major concern.

Female Asian Longhorn ticks can reproduce without mating and lay up to 2,000 eggs at a time. Large infestations on one animal can cause stress and reduce growth and production. Extreme infestations can even kill an animal due to blood loss.

Livestock owners are urged to work with their veterinarian, perform regular tick checks, and keep pastures and lawns mowed to reduce habitat.

The invasive pest was first detected in New Jersey in 2017 and has been found in 21 other states in the eastern U.S.—including Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.