A to Z of Pests

Pigeon Tick

Argas reflexus

Appearance

• Soft tick approximately 4mm long.
• The mouthparts are ventrally located and are covered by the front margin of the body so they are not visible from above.
• Bodies lack a scutum (a hard thickened plate) and the skin appears wrinkled and leather–like.

Lifecycle

• The females feed at intervals, increasing their body weight by up to three times, then laying globular, dark brown shiny eggs in batches of 20 – 50.
• The larvae feed on the hosts for six to eleven days although the nymphs and adults only feed for up to 12 hours.
• Pigeons are the principle host but other bird species may also be fed upon. Humans may also be bitten.

Habits

• The ticks feed at night and hide by day.
• They are commonly found in attics and rooms adjacent to areas where pigeons roost.
• Heavy infestations of these ticks can cause the death of the host pigeon.