First records of Dermacentor albipictus larvae collected by flagging in Yukon, Canada

• DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04425-3
• Publication Date: 2020-11-11T10:02:53Z
• Authors: Emily S. Chenery; N. Jane Harms; Nicholas E. Mandrak; Péter K. Molnár
• Keywords: Flagging

Abstract Background The winter tick ( Dermacentor albipictus ) has garnered significant attention throughout North America for its impact on wildlife health, and especially moose Alces alces ), where high burdens may result in host hair loss, anemia, can prove fatal. environmental transmission of D. larvae to a is critical event that direct infestation success, yet in-field observations this life stage are lacking. In Yukon, Canada, had previously been found hosts, but larval not detected the field, despite previous sampling attempts. Methods We sampled using traditional flagging methods Ibex Valley Braeburn, Yukon. Sites were repeatedly by from late August end October 2018 November 2019. Results Larvae collected Valley, at approximate densities ranging 0.04 4236 larvae/100 m 2 . present primarily grassy vegetation south-facing slopes region Braeburn. Highest average numbers suggest peak questing activity was towards September beginning October, as elsewhere America. Conclusions To best our knowledge, we report first successful collection off-host, flagging, north 60° latitude Canada. These new provide information spatial distribution host-seeking confirm species completing whole cycle southern Understanding conditions spend their vulnerable period off-host northern location inform both management strategies projections future range expansion which occur with changing climate.