Prevalence of Tick Infestation in Cattle in Bauchi State, North East Nigeria and Farmer Management Practices

Tick infestations in cattle are a primary vector concern in Nigerian livestock systems, transmitting pathogens responsible for theileriosis, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis, and causing direct economic losses through blood-sucking, hide damage, and secondary infections. This study assesses the prevalence of tick infestation in cattle and evaluates farmer management practices in Bauchi State, North East Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted across three agropastoral communities in Bauchi, Tafawa Balewa, and Bogoro Local Government Areas. A total of 280 cattle from 60 herds were physically examined for tick burden, and collected ticks were preserved in 70 percent ethanol for morphological identification using standard taxonomic keys. Herdsmen were interviewed using structured questionnaires to capture acaricide use, dipping frequency, tick-awareness knowledge, and veterinary service access. Current literature from 2020 to 2024 identifies Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma species as the predominant tick genera in northeastern Nigeria, with acaricide resistance reported as an emerging concern. This study will provide county-level tick prevalence data and identify knowledge gaps contributing to inadequate tick control. Results will be presented to the Bauchi State Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources to strengthen livestock health extension services. Recommendations will address acaricide stewardship and farmer training priorities. Keywords: tick infestation, cattle, acaricide, Bauchi State, tick identification.