Pest management concepts and control of tick paralysis in British Columbia

Actual and potential methods for controlling and reducing paralysis of livestock and humans by the tick <i>Dermacentor andersoni</i> Stiles are analyzed, and assigned tentative "Geier ratings" of cost and effectiveness. Four broad categories of control are discussed: protection from toxins, prevention of engorgement, avoidance, and reduction in numbers of ticks. Some control methods are undesirable because of their effects on the eco-system, including game animals. More information is needed on immunology of mammals to tick toxins and tick feeding, on variations and genetics of paralysing ability in ticks, on range management in relation to paralysis, on the effects of herbicides on rodents and ticks, and on life-table parameters of ticks and rodents