Bird mites in coop - diagnosis and prevention of avian scabies

Parasites in poultry are a common problem in hens coops that farmers have to face. One of the most common parasites are avian scabies. In today's article, we will delve into the details of this parasite, highlighting its symptoms, treatment, potential risks to humans, and effective control methods, both pharmaceutical and at-home.

What does avian scabies look like?

Avian scabies are a microscopic mites that attacks birds, especially hens. This parasite feeds on the epidermis and causes various problems and skin changes in infected birds. It is particularly active in areas with slightly higher temperatures, making it a problem that is especially prominent during the summer months.

How do you recognize scabies in hens?

Symptoms of avian scabies infection can be varied. Birds infected with this parasite often show excessive scratching, loss of feathers and even changes in behavior. Characteristic skin lesions, such as redness, peeling and scab formation, can be seen on the skin. In cases of advanced infections, the bird may even refuse to eat. Symptoms observed in humans are mainly itching, reddening of the skin and the appearance of small pustules.

How to fight with avian scabies in poultry?

Treatment of avian scabies should be carried out under the supervision of a veterinarian. For this type of skin infection, we usually apply antiparasitic preparations such as Dergall, which helps controlling the infection. In the case of advanced infections, antibacterial or anti-inflammatory drugs may also be necessary. Disinfection of the environment in which infected birds reside is also an important part of treatment.

Can bird scabies be eradicated with home remedies?

Although the treatment of itching in hens should be carried out by professionals, there are some home methods that can help with dealing with this parasite. One of the popular remedies is bathing in a sulfur solution, which can help reduce the mite population on the hens' skin. However, it is important to consult it with a veterinarian before you use any remedies.

Home remedies for controlling the skin infection caused by avian scabies also includes keeping the poultry coop clean, regular disinfection and putting sick birds into quarantine. In addition, natural mite repellents can be used, such as:

• Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic qualities. Its use can help repel mites, including bird scabies. In addition, tea tree oil can have a relieving effect on a bird's irritated skin, promoting healing.
• Eucalyptus oil has antiseptic and repellent properties. Its use may have the effect of reducing mite populations, including avian scabies. In addition, eucalyptus can have a beneficial effect on the respiratory system of birds, which is important in the case of respiratory infections caused by parasites.
• Vinegar is another natural remedy that is useful in fighting avian scabies. The acetic acid in vinegar has antiseptic properties that can help disinfect the environment in which birds reside. Soaking birds' legs in a vinegar solution can also help reduce mite populations on the skin.

However, it is worth remembering that the use of these medicines should be carefully consulted with a veterinarian to avoid possible undesirable effects and to make sure that they are safe for the birds' health.

Is it possible to catch scabies from birds?

Avian scabies is a parasite from the mite family. Although it usually attacks birds, they are a potential threat to humans. Transmission of the parasite from hens to humans is rare, but does exist. It manifests itself primarily through skin irritation and the appearance of small pustules. Even if the risk is low, it is still worth taking caution and precautions.

What happens when chicken gets sick with scabies?

Infection with avian scabies can lead to a number of undesirable consequences for both the birds' health and egg production efficiency. Symptoms of infection, such as excessive scratching, feather loss, redness and flaking of the skin, can lead to stress in birds, which negatively affects their overall well-being. Over time, infections can worsen, leading to loss of appetite, weakness and reduced egg production, which in turn affects the efficiency of the hens.

In cases of advanced infection and lack of proper treatment, the infection can spread to other birds in the flock, increasing the risk of lost profits and reducing overall breeding efficiency.

Preventive measures against bird scabies?

Effective prophylactic is a key to preventing avian scabies infections. Here are some steps that hen breeders can take to minimize the risk of this infection:

1. Systematic disinfection - Regular cleaning and disinfection of the poultry coop are important. They maintain clean environment, which reduces reproduction of mites and other parasites.
2. Isolate sick birds - If you notice signs of avian scabies infection, you should isolate sick birds from the rest of the flock immidiately. This reduces the spread of infection.
3. Systematic veterinary checkups - regular veterinary checkups are crucial for early detection of possible infections. A professional evaluation of your flock's health allows you to react quickly and apply appropriate remedies.
4. Use of antiparasitic preparations - Veterinarians may recommend usage of antiparasitic preparations as part of routine health care. Regular use of these preparations can help prevent infections.
5. Monitoring environmental conditions - Maintaining optimal environmental conditions, such as proper temperature and humidity, can help reduce mite activity.

Implementing these preventive practices can significantly reduce the risk of avian scabies infestation, contributing to the health and well-being of the hen flock and, in turn, improving breeding performance.

What vitamins can protect against scabies?

It's common knowledge that regular supplementation of individual vitamins can significantly help to benefit the immune system. Proper vitamin supplementation will improve hens immunity and give extra protection from avian scabies infections.

• Vitamin A is crucial for the skins health and mucous membranes, and is the first line of defense against infection. Additional vitamin A supplementation can improve birds' immunity, especially when they are exposed to skin parasites.
• Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining the integrity of the immune system, and supporting proper vitamin D levels in hens can increase their ability to fight infection.
• Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage and benefiting the birds' overall immunity by providing protection against the negative effects of free radicals.

How to naturally increase the immunity of birds?

In addition, it is a good idea to provide natural ingredients that support the hens immune system.

• Garlic is a natural ingredient with antiparasitic and antibacterial properties, and as food additive can support immunity and act as a deterrent to parasites.
• Ginger, rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds, can support the birds' immune systems, contributing to their health.
• Olive oil contains antioxidants and can influence skin and feather health while boosting immunity.

However, it is important to adjust the dose and type of supplementation under the supervision of a veterinarian to ensure proper support of bird health.

Avian scabies is a common parasite that can be challenging for hen farmers. Infection is associated with a variety of symptoms in birds, and it's worth to stay focused, even if the risk of transmission to humans is low. Treatment of the parasite should be carried out under the supervision of a veterinarian, but there are also home methods to help control the infection.