Scaly Leg Mites
Scaly leg mites are a sarcoptic mite of poultry (Knemidocoptes mutans). They like to live under the scales of the
chicken's legs. They burrow into the tissue beneath the scales causing the
scales to become loose from the tissue. Infected birds usually have thickened,
crusty legs and feet. Some birds may become lame due to the pain or discomfort associated with infestation. When scales are lost the legs may be tender. There can be redness and inflammation seen in some infected individuals. It is more often seen in older birds, perhaps because
their scales are not as tight to the leg as those of younger birds making it
easier for the mites to get beneath them.
The mites do sometimes attack the combs and wattles of severely infected
birds. The entire life cycle of the mite
is carried out in the skin beneath the scales. The mites are transmitted
through contact with infected birds.
Affected birds should be quarantined from the rest of the flock to
prevent further infection. The area
should be cleaned and sprayed with a product effective at treating mites, such
as malathion or a pyrethroid compound, Seven dust has also been proven
effective. Individual birds should be treated with oral or topical
ivermectin. You can wash the legs with
warm soap and water and using a toothbrush scrub away any exudate that has
formed on the scales. Do not try to pick the scales off as that is damaging to
the bird. You should allow the scales to fall off and regrow on their own. This
will usually occur during the next molt, it can be up to a year before the legs
look normal again. You can also apply Vaseline to the legs, getting up under
and inbetween the scales as best as possible. This is supposed to help smother
the mites.
There are some remedies talked about that recommend the
use of Creosote or Diesel. These chemicals are not safe for your birds and I do
not recommend their use.
Just a little tidbit of information:
Sarcoptic mites of dogs cause sarcoptic mange also known
as Scabies to many people, the mite of the dog and that of the chicken are not
the same mite though, so you don’t have to worry about you or your dog catching
them from your chickens or vice versa.
