September 18, 2025 – As if we didn’t have enough pests to be concerned with when we’re out and about in our gardens and outdoors in general, we have a new pest that’s coming, and it’s called the Asian Longhorned Tick (ALHT). Though Asian, it was first detected in New Jersey in 2017. In just eight years, it has spread to at least 20 states, the most western being Arkansas (2018) and Oklahoma (2024), which means Texas is probably next. The speed with which it arrived in Arkansas means it has probably been delivered in produce of some type.
ALHTs carry a parasite called Theilera orientalis (cattle theileriorsis). It’s a parasite that affects red and white blood cells, which can cause anemia and in a worst-case basis, lead to death. Other caried pathogens can have adverse effects on farm animals. They also have other pathogens which have serious impacts.
Mating is not required for reproduction, and a female can lay up to 2,000 eggs, which, in turn, make the new host heavily infected. Dairy cows, for instance, can see a 25% loss in milk production. Stress can result in slower growth and even death from blood loss.
ALHT sizes range from that of a sesame seed to a pea after feeding. Hosts include a wide range of domesticated farm animals, pets, and humans. Warm blood sources are required for survival.
For humans, the risks are many. While they don’t carry Lyme disease, they can cause Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Heartland virus, and Powassan virus. So far, these extra problems have only shown up in a laboratory environment, but…..
In urban areas, the ALHT problem is slight, although awareness for your pets is strongly suggested. In rural areas, regularly check pets and livestock. Remember, on tick can jump to as many as 2,000 literally overnight.
