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. During the day, birds will show little indication of infestation but may exhibit striking anemia.