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The invasive Asian longhorned tick can pose a risk to humans, animals, and livestock. University of Illinois Extension found it in west central Illinois for the first time.

Asian longhorned ticks were first found in the U.S. in 2017, but they’ve likely been here longer and are now confirmed in 19 other states. The Asian longhorned tick is an invasive pest of concern for livestock because severe infestations can impact livestock production. Teresa Steckler of Illinois Extension is a commercial agriculture specialist in cattle who says Asian longhorned ticks have been found in large numbers on livestock, sheep, and cattle so far, resulting in severe distress and, in some cases, death.

“Spring is a busy time for farmers and ranchers as they put cattle out to pasture, but it’s important that producers take some time to look for tick infestations,” Steckler says. “People need to be more vigilant and take precautions.”