Chemical and Non-chemical Methods of Tick Control for the Rural Environment
Deer Culling
Studies have indicated that deer feed a large proportion of the tick population. Reducing deer numbers has shown to decrease the number of ticks in certain areas. However, in some studies, certain species of adult ticks (which favour deer to complete their life cycle) have adapted to smaller hosts, such as hare, when the deer are removed.
Red Deer
Tick Mops
In some areas where red deer and mountain hares do not occur, sheep are dipped or doused with acaricide four times or more per year before being turned out. Treating sheep this way allows them to mop up ticks, which die when they come into contact with the acaricide residue on the fleece. This method has been successful in reducing tick numbers.
The Game Conservancy Trust is currently conducting trials in the Scottish Highlands to test whether using sheep as "tick mops" can also be successful in controlling ticks in areas where there are deer and hares.
Using deer and hares as a method of mopping up ticks has also been considered. However, acaricides, which are licensed for use on domestic livestock and pets in the UK, are currently not licensed for use on any type of wildlife.
Treated sheep help to mop up ticks
Bracken Control
Approved herbicides are usually sprayed on bracken from mid July to the end of August in order to control its growth.
Bracken is an ideal habitat for ticks. This is because its dense growth keeps humidity levels high. Once it withers and dies, it creates a moist layer for ticks to remain in.
Bracken is growing out of control in certain areas, particularly throughout
heather moorland. Once it was harvested for use as winter bedding for
livestock, but this tradition died out as modern farming methods took
over. In certain areas, this plant is invading moorland at a rate of 5%
per year. A guide to best practice is available from the 
Scottish
Environment Protection Agency
(SEPA).
Bracken is sprayed with herbicide
Moorland Burning
For centuries moorland has been burned to manage the vegetation and to
stimulate new growth. Another benefit of this practice is that it can
also help to control tick numbers. However, it must be very carefully
managed. The "Muirburn
Code" covers best practice methods and the legal aspects of moorland
burning.
Carefully managed moorland burning helps control tick numbers
