Species diversity, distribution and habitat suitability modeling of ixodid ticks infesting cattle in selected districts of the North Wollo Zone, northeast Ethiopia

Ixodid ticks, as vectors for numerous pathogens, pose a significant threat to Ethiopia's livestock industry. However, data on their species diversity and distribution in the North Wollo zone are scarce. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify ticks infesting cattle, associated risk factors, and their habitat suitability in the region. From March to December 2024, a multistage cluster sampling technique was used to examine 340 tick infested cattle across four districts. Collected ticks were morphologically identified. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and logistic regression, to identify risk factors, while the maximum entropy was employed to predict habitat suitability for the five dominant species. A total of 2,258 ticks, comprising three genera and twelve species were collected. The five most abundant species namely; Amblyomma variegatum (26.9%), Amblyomma cohaerens (14.2%), Rhipicephalus decoloratus (18.5%), Rhipicephalus pulchellus (17.1%), and Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi (13.1%) together accounted for more than 90% of the total collection. The primary attachment site was the ano-vulval region (35.2%), followed by the udder/scrotum (22.4%). Logistic regression revealed that altitude, body condition, herd size, and animal movement were significant risk factors for tick infestation. Furthermore, habitat suitability modeling identified elevation, vegetation type, and land cover as key environmental predictors for tick distribution. This study provided the first comprehensive data on tick diversity and distribution in North Wollo zone. By identifying both host-related risk factors and geographically suitable habitats, these findings are crucial for developing targeted and effective tick control strategies, ultimately safeguarding livestock health and productivity in the region.