Leg Mites in Chickens
How to keep the mites away?
It can look idyllic, can’t it? Seeing chickens roaming freely, pecking at the ground, searching for food, enjoying the outdoors... Yet, unbeknownst to many, these birds could be fighting a silent battle against an invisible foe that lurks beneath their scales. This foe is the leg mite, a parasite that can cause significant distress and health issues for chickens.
What are Leg Mites?
Leg mites, or Knemidocoptes Mutans, are tiny parasites that infest the legs and feet of chickens. They burrow under the scales, feeding on the tissue and debris, which causes the scales to react by thickening and lifting. This condition, known as scaly leg, is not only unsightly but also extremely uncomfortable for the affected birds.
Symptoms and Effects
The first sign of a leg mite infestation is often a subtle change in the appearance of a chicken’s legs. The scales, which should lie flat and smooth, begin to protrude and harden. As the infestation progresses, the legs may appear deformed, and the chicken will experience intense itching and irritation.
This discomfort can lead to restlessness and a decrease in normal behaviours such as foraging and dust bathing. In severe cases, the pain can be debilitating, causing lameness and reluctance to move. This can have a knock-on effect on the chicken’s overall health, leading to weight loss, decreased egg production, and increased vulnerability to other diseases.
The Impact on Flock Health
While leg mites primarily affect individual birds, their presence in a flock can have broader implications. Infested chickens may become withdrawn, leading to social stress and pecking order disruptions. Moreover, leg mites can spread rapidly through contact, putting the entire flock at risk.
Treatment and Management
Treating leg mites involves a multi-faceted approach. To prevent the spread of mites you may decide to isolate affected chickens. The legs can be treated with specialized ointments to suffocate the mites and soothe irritation.
Prevention is equally important. Regular inspection of the flock’s legs, maintaining clean and dry housing, and providing dust baths can help keep leg mites at bay. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent the spread and minimize suffering.
Conclusion
Leg mites are a small but significant problem in poultry care. Their impact on chicken welfare and flock health cannot be underestimated. By understanding the issue, recognising the signs, and implementing effective management strategies, poultry keepers can protect their flocks from the pain and distress caused by these tiny parasites.
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George’s Chicken remedies range includes ‘Mites Away’ a lavender infused solution with added purple colouring to ensure you can easily see which birds you have treated. This treatment kills the mites, soothes the legs and within a few weeks your hens will have new smooth scales.