Spatial and temporal distribution of spinose ear ticks, Otobius megnini, within animal shelters at Fossil Rim Wildlife center

Spinose ear ticks, Otobius megnini, are monoxenous parasites that feed deep in the inner ear of many animals. Although no known pathogens are associated with this tick, infested hosts are subject to conditions affecting overall health. Despite the potential importance of this species in wildlife management, little is known about its basic life history, much less about population dynamics within animal shelters within wildlife management areas. We sampled two animal shelters biweekly from August 2012 through July 2013. Preliminary results indicate a strong correlation between larval tick abundance and environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity.  The abundance of adult ticks seems to vary stochastically in regards to environmental conditions.  In terms of the spatial distribution, ticks were found primarily along the edge of the shelters.