This is a 1-host tick that is capable of transmitting a variety of diseases. It is the principal vector for bovine babesiosis. As such, it is a reportable parasite in the U.S. allthough its reintroduction across out southern border is always a threat. Common in most warm areas of the world. Larval and nymphal stages invade the ears of the host.
Adults drop off the animal and are non-parasitic.
Hosts are numerous including horses, cattle, rabbits and even man. Individual ticks may remain in the ears of its host for up to 1 year causing considerable damage and annoyance. A widely distributed tick throughout most of the world. Ticks may travel long distances to find their hosts. Large numbers may parasitise fowl at night, removing large amounts of blood.