Effect of minerals on spinose ear tick (Otobius megnini) distribution within animal shelters

In 1949, H. E. Parish noted the presence of spinose ear ticks (Otobius megnini) under all 37 salt troughs located on two ranches in Kimble Co., TX.   He further reported finding 9,180 ticks under 11 troughs located on a ranch that maintain 5,000 head of cattle. This study was designed to determine the effect of the presence of salt and/or mineral sources on the distribution of these ticks within animal shelters located at the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, TX. Treatments were commercially prepared animal mineral sources in the solid block form.  These treatments included: 1) 99.9% NaCl, 2) 97% NaCl with 3% S, 3) mineral block with various minerals and vitamins, 4) cinder block and 5) control (no block).  Each treatment was replicated inside three shelters and again outside in three additional shelters.