A survey concerning cattle tick control in Queensland. 4. Use of resistant cattle and pasture spelling

The results of a survey on tick control carried out in 1977-78 indicate that tick resistant cattle have been introduced for their heat and drought tolerance and their ability to grow more rapidly than European cattle, especially in the extensive grazing country of Northern and Central Queensland. In South-eastern Queensland acceptance of tick resistant cattle has been slower because producers believe they are more difficult to manage than European cattle. A need for more publicity to be given to the different handling methods required by these animals was shown. Some producers cull their less resistant crossbred Zebu cattle and others could be encouraged to do so. Pasture spelling appears to be quite common especially in the Costal North; it is being carried out for pasture management rather than as a tick control measure. Producers in Central and South-eastern Queensland, who do not spell pastures, feel that it reduces the carrying capacity.