Where does the meadow tick inhabit? - briefly
The meadow tick occupies grassy and herbaceous environments—meadows, pastures, and forest margins—in temperate regions of Europe and North America. It favors moist, low‑lying vegetation where it can quest for passing hosts.
Where does the meadow tick inhabit? - in detail
The meadow tick, scientifically known as Haemaphysalis punctata, occupies temperate grassland ecosystems across Europe and parts of western Asia. Populations are most abundant in regions where open pastures meet woodland edges, providing a mosaic of vegetation and shelter.
Geographically, the species is recorded in:
- Central and northern Europe (including the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Scandinavia)
- Southern Europe (Italy, Spain, Greece)
- Western Asian locales such as Turkey and the Caucasus
Its presence correlates with specific environmental parameters:
- Humidity levels of 80 % or higher in the lower vegetation layer
- Temperatures ranging from 7 °C to 25 °C during the active season (April‑October)
- Soil or leaf‑litter depth of at least 5 cm, offering moisture retention
- Dense herbaceous cover, particularly grasses, clovers, and low‑lying forbs
- Proximity to livestock or wildlife hosts that frequent grazing areas
Microhabitat selection favors shaded spots under shrubs or within tall grass where wind exposure is reduced. Seasonal activity peaks in late spring and early autumn, aligning with host movement patterns and optimal climatic conditions.