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This article was published in 1956
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INSTITUTE OF INSPECTORS OF STOCK OF N.S.W. YEAR BOOK.

HAEMOPHYSALIS BISPINOSA

A Note on Distribution

D. W. DUNCAN, B.V.Sc., Inspector of Stock, Gundagai.

INTRODUCTION: The Tick, Haemophysalis bispinosa (Neuman, 1899), occurs on cattle, the normal host, also on sheep, horses and pigs; and sometimes on dogs and wild birds (Seddon, 1951).

It occurs commonly on cattle on the northern coastal watersheds of New South Wales, but has been found as far south as Bodalla. Inland, the tick has been found at Tenterfield, Inverell and Mudgee (Seddon, loc. cit.).

The purpose of this article is to record its appearance at Tumut and Brungle; in southern inland New South Wales.

CASES OF INFESTATION.

1. Sheep: 7/10/55.-TUMUT.

A brown tick was found by an employee; firmly attached to the bare skin on the inside of the thigh of a sheep. On removal, blood was stated to have come from the point of attachment. The tick was presented at this office; where it was identified tentatively as Haemophysalis spp.

The tick was forwarded for identification; and classified as Haemophysalis bispinosa.

In January, 1956, the owner reported many similar ticks to have been found infesting his young cattle. Investigation failed to reveal the mode of introduction of the parasite.

2. Cattle: 19/12/55-BRUNGLE.

A tick considered identical with those referred to in Case No. I was presented for examination. It had been located by a dairyman on a milking cow and he stated that calves were also infested.

There was no history of introduction of other than local cattle to the herd.

CONCLUSION: It would appear that Haemophysalis bispinosa is establishing itself in the area. The inference is that this is due to the high summer rainfall received during recent years.

REFERENCE:

SEDDON, H. R. (1951)-Service Publication. No. 7. Commonwealth of Australia, Department of Health. A. H. Pettifer, Government Printer, Sydney.