Ectoparasites of sharp-tailed grouse, Pediocetes phasianellus

Seven species of ectoparasites were recovered during a survey of sharp-tailed grouse, Pediocetes phasianellus, including the ticks, Haemaphysalis chordeilis and H. leporispalustris; the lice, Goniodes nebraskensis, Lagopoecus gibsoni and Amyrsidea sp.; the hippoboscid fly, Ornithomyia anchineuria; and the mite, Ornithonyssus sylviarum. Seasonal changes in populations of ticks and lice were found but not for populations of the hippoboscids or mites. All stages of H. Chordeilis were found on sharp-tailed grouse only. Larvae and nymphs of H. leporispalustris were found on sharp-tailed grouse and song birds. Larvae, nymphs and adults of H. leporispalustris were recovered from a snowshoe hare. Small mammals from the study area did not harbour any species of ticks.