Invasive Asian Longhorned Tick Discovered In Michigan

The summertime is great for spending time outdoors and enjoying nature, especially in Michigan after we just spent several months dealing with the cold temperatures and snowstorms. Feeling the warm sun hitting our skin, breathing in the fresh air, looking at the blossomed flowers, watching animals in their natural habitats, and more are all joys of the summer, but everything isn't always peaches and cream.

Get our free mobile app

Although there are tons of great things about summer, there are a number of things that aren't so fun. Firstly, sweating because of the hot temperatures, the risk of being sunburnt, and the overall fatigue from being in the sun are all things to be considered. In addition to these concerns, being in nature poses its own concerns as well. Some of those concerns are poison ivy, dehydration, and bugs.

Species like mosquitos, flies, worms, and other small insects are what come to mind first when you think of bugs. While all of these bugs can be bothersome, there's another that could do much more than be annoying. Ticks are one of the most dangerous bugs that we could run into as they are small and can cause severe illness.

Have You Heard Of The Asian Longhorned Tick?

There are several different species of ticks that exist in the world and dozens of them have been found in Michigan. Recently, there was a new species of tick found in the Mitten state, the Asian Longhorned tick. Mlive via MSN reports:

On June 13, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) reported that two tick nymphs were found during surveillance at Grand Mere State Park in Berrien County. Calvin University research students made the discovery.

The specimens were collected and sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories for analysis and confirmation. The tiny invasive tick is only 1mm long and poses a disease risk to birds, mammals, and even humans. The Asian Longhorned tick isn't known for carrying Lyme disease but could be carrying Rocky Mountain spotted fever, heartland virus, and Powassan virus.

CBS Detroit via MSN shared this with residents of Michigan:

The ticks can lay up to 2,000 eggs at a time; and a tick infestation on an animal can cause physical stress and blood loss. To prevent and alleviate problems, livestock owners are asked to regularly check their animals for ticks, follow any recommended veterinary treatment, and keep pastures clear of brush.

Be vigilant this summer when coming from outdoors and remember to check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks! Below are some tips to keep yourself and your pet safe from ticks: