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Rhipicephalus spp are mostly three host ticks, although some have a two host life cycle. They are commonly found on mammals but rarely infest reptiles and birds.
Rhipicephalus spp. can be identified by;
- Wide palps
- Hexagonal base of capitulum
- Eyes present on idiosoma
- Not ornate
- Festoons on posterior margin
- Posterior anal groove
- Comma shaped spiracles
R. sanguineus
| Also known as: | Brown dog tick
Kennel tick |
This species is found throughout the world, mainly affecting dogs but also found on other mammals and birds including humans. In the UK these ticks are found in houses and kennels as the outdoor conditions are not suitable, however in warmer climates the ticks can be found outdoors. This adult tick is yellow/brown in colour, while larvae are light brown and nymphs reddish. The adults can vary in size from 3mm up to 12mm in the engorged female.
There are 2 Rhipicephalus species found in Europe; R.sanguineus,the brown dog tick is found in houses and kennels in the UK as outdoor conditions are not suitable. It is a three host tick and can complete its life cycle in 4 - 5 months, though this may take longer in colder conditions. This tick transmits Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), Babesia canis, B.gibson, Ehrlichia canis, E.vogeli, Salmonella enteritidis, Hepatozoon canis, Rickettsia conorii, Q fever, Rickettsia rickettsii (Rocky mountain spotted fever) to dogs. R.bursa, which infects horses is found in southern Europe.