Exploring cattle tick infestations, farmers knowledge, attitudes, and control practices in selected villages of Collins Chabane Local Municipality, Limpopo Province

Abstract

Tick infestations remain a significant constraint to cattle health and productivity in communal farming systems of South Africa. A cross-sectional mixed-methods approach was employed, combining tick surveys, clinical examinations of cattle, and a farmer’s knowledge, attitudes and perceptions (KAP) survey conducted during routine dipping days. Adult ticks were systematically collected from cattle, preserved in 70% ethanol and identified morphologically using standard taxonomic keys. A clinical evaluation checklist was used to record tick burden, species composition, attachment sites, tick-induced lesions, and body condition scores. Cattle farmers’ data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire administered in Xitsonga language. A total of 967 adult ticks were identified, comprising eight species, with Amblyomma hebraeum and Rhipicephalus decoloratus being the most prevalent across both villages. Ntlhaveni village exhibited a higher overall tick burden and greater abundance of Rhipicephalus microplus and Hyalomma rufipes than Matiyani village, suggesting that environmental conditions, grazing patterns, and management practices likely influenced spatial variation. High tick burdens were observed in both villages, with mixed-species infestations being common. Age and physiological status significantly influenced tick burden and tick-induced lesion severity, with growing and pregnant cattle more severely affected. Tick lesions, hair loss and skin thickening were prevalent, and most cattle displayed low to moderate body condition scores, suggesting negative implications for productivity. Despite limited formal livestock training, most farmers demonstrated practical knowledge of tick identification and inspection. However, nearly half of the respondents reported year-round high tick infestations and perceived a decline in acaricide effectiveness, suggesting potential acaricide resistance. Tick infestations were associated with reduced milk production, poor body condition, increased calf mortality, and higher treatment costs. Overall, the study highlights the substantial health and economic burden of ticks in communal cattle systems, underscoring the need for location-specific, integrated, and sustainable tick control strategies supported by strengthened veterinary extension services.