The seasonal tick populations on traditional and commercial cattle grazed at four altitudes in Natal

Abstract

The number of ticks collected over a period of one year from cattle at 4 altitude levels in Natal, Republic of South Africa, are plotted against meteorological and seasonal data. Collections were made from both traditional and commercial cattle at each altitude. Most of the economically important tick species show clear seasonal patterns of activity. This suggests that strategic dipping could be used as a means of control.