Rabbit Tick
Scientific name: Haemaphysalis leporispalustris
Like the “other” rabbit tick (Ixodes dentatus), H. leporispalustris is commonly found on rabbits. This tick species rarely bite humans, thus posing a low threat to spreading tick-borne diseases. However, the rabbit tick supports the circulation of spotted fever group rickettsioses (SFGR) among wildlife, including Rocky Mountain Spotted fever, a tick-borne disease that can be deadly to humans and companion animals.
Hosts
The rabbit tick primarily feeds on ground-dwelling birds, rodents, and rabbits.
Habitat
The rabbit tick is primarily found in meadows and fields where its hosts live.
Locations in NJ
The tick has been collected in several New Jersey counties distributed throughout the state.
Active Months
The seasonal activity of this species in New Jersey is unknown. Note: In California, adult and nymph life stages are collected year-round, with larvae and nymphs peaking during the late summer and into the fall season.