Using Fungi to Manage Winter Ticks in Moose

Winter ticks can cause moose population decline in North America. These parasites cause physical stress to moose, often killing calves. Thriving tick populations are believed to be linked with climate change and threaten overall moose health and long-term survival as a species. Commercially available, fungal-based products show promise for reducing tick populations and have minimal negative effects on other non-target organisms. Researchers will conduct trials simulating natural forest conditions to assess the effectiveness of available and experimental products against winter ticks. Novel strategies to manage ticks during their vulnerable off-host period could alleviate the stress and decrease mortality in moose caused by these parasites.