New Jersey is one of the world's hubs for travel, with countless visitors coming in and out every year, and not all of them are human. Invasive species are common in the Garden State, and wildlife authorities are always on the lookout for potentially harmful species. Many are harmless, like the camel cricket. However, some invasive species can bring with them diseases or danger for other species. When an invasive species is deemed to be harmful, authorities work to contain the population. That's why when word first got out of the Asian Longhorned Tick in New Jersey, authorities sprang into action. Here's everything you need to know about this new species of tick that has made its way into our borders, and whether it's a threat to people or animals.
The Asian Longhorned Tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) has many nicknames, including the bush tick or cattle tick and is a parasitic creature that feeds on blood.
Many people no doubt think, "ew, a gross insect" when they see a tick, but ticks aren't insects at all. They're arachnids, more closely related to spiders.
This particular tick has long been a pest in its native home of East Central Asia, and can also be found in the Pacific islands. But now it's made its way over to the United States.
The Asian Longhorned Tick was first found in New Jersey in Hunterdon County in 2017. They mostly feed on birds and mammals - including humans.
Ticks are often found in forests and swamps, so anyone planning to go hiking should keep an eye out for this invasive tick.
After hiking, make sure to check your body thoroughly for any hitchhikers. The Asian Longhorned Tick is capable of transmitting diseases to humans, although there are no documented cases yet.
You may want to try this tick repellent for extra protection.
Are you keeping an eye out for the Asian Longhorned Tick in New Jersey? Feel free to reach out and let us know if you've spotted this new invasive species or any other unusual animals you might have seen around the state. If you want to know more about federal guidance on this invasive species of tick, you can check the official government website regarding the long-horned tick. For a more controlled way to meet some unexpected New Jersey residents, check out this unique animal sanctuary.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-jersey/hybrid-wolves-nj/
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