Outdoor enthusiasts, including hunters, fishers, and dog walkers, are more exposed to ticks, small but significant parasites affecting both human and animal health. Of the roughly 900 tick species globally, the most common in Ireland is the hard tick Ixodes ricinus. Ticks, in their larval, nymph, and adult stages, feed on mammalian blood, potentially spreading diseases during these feedings.
Tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease and others impacting livestock have significant health and economic consequences. Ticks, active mainly from April to October in Ireland, thrive in warm, humid conditions, and are found in both rural and urban areas.
After outdoor activities, it's crucial to check for ticks, especially in hidden areas like ears, belly buttons, knees, underarms, hair, between legs, and around the waist. Prompt removal is important, and for dogs, check their feet, neck, head, and ears closely.
One such project, being conducted through UCD, is gathering data on Tick Borne Disease in Irish deer. The project aims to gain a greater understanding of what tick-borne diseases affect deer in Ireland and the geographical spread of these diseases.
A major factor in helping this understanding is researchers’ access to samples, this is where you, as hunters come in.
Researchers are looking for samples from any species of deer, from any part of Ireland. A sample kit will be provided to anyone interested, which includes a FREEPOST envelope to return the samples. Samples being sought are spleen, blood, and skin with attached tick (if any). Even if no ticks are visible or present samples would be gratefully appreciated.
For more information and to request sample packs please contact [email protected]