AGRICULTURE NEWS - External parasites (ectoparasites) that target poultry include lice, mites, ticks, fleas and flies.
They live on or around the birds, and can disturb them, affect their growth and egg production, and spread disease.
Lice
Chickens are infested mainly with biting lice. These irritate the birds, slowing growth and resulting in fewer eggs being laid.
Biting lice spend their entire lives on the chickens, feeding on skin and feathers. They occur mainly on the skin around the vent and on the breast and thighs.
Mites
Mites feed on the blood of chickens, and the birds’ growth suffers as a result. Three important types of mites are found on poultry.
Ticks
The soft tick (Argas persicus) feeds on the blood of chickens for short periods and spends the rest of its time in crevices. When they occur in large numbers on chickens, they cause weight loss and a decrease in egg production. They can also cause paralysis and transmit spirochaetosis, a gut condition that leads to diarrhoea.
Fleas
Many types of fleas infect poultry, the most common type being the sticktight flea (Echidnophaga gallinacea). It feeds on the blood of chickens, and can survive in the cages for a long time.
Flies
Flies lay their eggs in the bodies of dead chickens and in chicken droppings.
Control
Cleanliness is crucial in controlling ectoparasites. Inspect the birds daily. Remove droppings at least once a day. Wash and disinfect cages/houses. Remove dead birds without delay.
Various chemicals are available to kill ectoparasites, but it’s important to use the correct kind.
Read the full article here on the Caxton publication, Farmer's Weekly.
