Warmer temperatures and increasing moisture this spring and summer are expected to create ideal conditions for cattle ticks to survive and spread.
Combined with a warmer-than-average winter across much of Queensland, these conditions may increase the risk of cattle tick infestations.
Why it matters
Cattle ticks can reduce productivity, impact animal health and spread diseases such as tick fever. Early detection and proactive management are the best ways to protect your herd and your business. Cattle tick also transmit the blood parasites that cause tick fever.
What you can do
- Inspect cattle tick carriers regularly for signs of ticks. Carriers include cattle, buffalo, bison, deer, horses, sheep, goats and camelids.
- Isolate and check all newly introduced stock before mixing them with your herd.
- Review and update your property biosecurity plan.
- Strengthen on-farm biosecurity measures to prevent cattle ticks entering your property. This may include checking and maintaining stock proof boundary fences and conducting regular manual inspections.
- If you are in the cattle tick-infested zone, implement appropriate control strategies to manage tick numbers. For example, using planned chemical treatments or introducing resistant breeds.
- Vaccinate your animals to prevent tick fever. If you suspect you have tick fever consult your veterinarian immediately.
- If you suspect your cattle have cattle tick in the cattle tick free zone, you must notify Biosecurity Queensland.
More information
- Learn more about cattle tick.
- Learn more about treatment, prevention and control for cattle tick fever outbreaks.
- Find out about Queensland’s cattle tick zones and the legal requirements for moving susceptible livestock.
Stay informed
For advice on cattle tick management and biosecurity planning, contact us online, by phone or in person.
Last updated: 29 Oct 2026