Myth or truth: gorse and ticks – which is really true?

Boppard. The rumor persists: there are a particularly large number of ticks in the gorse. But what is behind this assumption? If we look at the lifestyles of ticks, it becomes clear that this rumor is more of a myth than a scientifically based fact.

The gorse enjoys a reputation as a possible “tick magnet”. Specialist articles report that the microclimate conditions prevailing around the gorse can create favorable living conditions for ticks. What is important, however, is not that the gorse itself actively attracts ticks, but rather that there are often conditions in its environment that favor ticks. For example, small rodents or birds can act as tick carriers (hosts) The proximity to the gorse ensures that more ticks are found in the adjacent areas.

Gorse: not a good place for ticks?
Gorse species, such as broom, generally prefer dry, sunny to hot locations. These conditions are rather unfavorable for ticks, which need high humidity to avoid drying out. Studies have shown that comparatively few ticks can be found in gorse stands. While there may be occasional evidence of ticks in gorse, the frequency is significantly lower compared to other, wetter forms of vegetation.

According to experts, the risk of catching ticks in gorse is no higher than in other bushy or grassy areas.

Gorse can be poisonous
Some types of gorse contain toxic substances that can pose health risks to humans and animals. Especially the broom (Cytisus scoparius) contains the alkaloid sparteine, which can cause severe symptoms of poisoning. Also other species such as the German broom (Genista germanica) contain toxic substances such as cytisine, which are also harmful to health.

Possible symptoms of poisoning

• nausea and vomiting,
• Gastrointestinal complaints such as abdominal pain and diarrhea,
• dizziness and lightheadedness,
• Cardiovascular problems such as a drop in blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmias,
• Shortness of breath in severe cases.

Particular caution is required with children and pets, as even small amounts can lead to symptoms of poisoning. If poisoning is suspected, medical help or a veterinarian should be sought immediately.

Lifestyle of ticks
Ticks, especially the common wood tick, which is common in Germany (Ixodes ricinus), are not “tree jumpers”. They usually wait for their hosts, such as dogs or people, at a height of less than one meter, usually only between 10 and 50 centimeters above the ground. Their preferred habitat is moist, shady areas with dense vegetation where they can hide.

• Tall, unmown meadows and grasses: Ticks prefer moist, sheltered areas in tall grass where they can hide.
• Dense vegetation and undergrowth: Forest edges, clearings and undergrowth not only offer ticks protection, but also proximity to potential hosts such as wild animals.
• Bushes and hedges: Ticks can also stay here.
• Riparian zones of rivers and lakes: Damp areas are very attractive to ticks.
• Overgrown gardens and parks with lots of green: Ticks can also occur in urban areas, especially if there is dense vegetation.
• Compost heaps and wood piles: These offer ticks an ideal, protected shelter.

These areas potentially pose the highest risk because they provide the ideal habitat for ticks. In order to minimize tick infestation in dogs and humans, they should be avoided when going for a walk. Mowed meadows, field paths and forest paths that are not too narrow, as well as sunny areas with short grass, are ideal for walks with the dog.

Tips for protecting dogs from ticks
In addition to avoiding tick-friendly surfaces, there are other measures that can improve dog protection:

• Regular scanning: After every walk, the dog should be thoroughly checked for ticks, especially on favorite bite sites such as the head, ears, neck, armpits, stomach and inner thighs.
• Tick ​​repellent: Speak to a veterinarian about appropriate tick repellent products (spot-ons, collars, tablets), that are tailored to the needs of the dog.
• Vaccination against Lyme disease: There is a vaccination against Lyme disease for dogs. The vet can also advise on this. There is currently no vaccination against TBE for dogs.
• Avoiding high-risk areas: Please note the current TBE risk areas in Germany, which are published by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) be reported. Even though ticks can occur nationwide, the risk of TBE infection is higher in these areas.
• Garden design: Regular mowing and removing dense undergrowth can reduce the risk of ticks in your own garden.

Tip: Removing a tick early, ideally within the first 24 hours after infestation, significantly reduces the risk of infection, as most pathogens are only transmitted after a longer period of infection.

In summary, it can be said that the rumor of broom as a particular attraction for ticks does not correspond to scientific knowledge. Rather, ticks can be found in moist, shady areas with dense, ground-level vegetation. If you avoid these areas, check your dog regularly for tick infestations and use appropriate tick protection, these are the best measures for your dog's health. (Stefan Richter)

Also as a video contribution on YouTube