How to get rid of pigeon lice? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved insecticide spray directly to the birds and their environment, then thoroughly clean the loft, replace bedding, and eliminate any nesting material. Repeat treatment after 7‑10 days to break the lice life cycle.
How to get rid of pigeon lice? - in detail
Pigeon lice are small, wingless insects that live on the feathers and skin of birds, feeding on blood and causing irritation, feather loss, and reduced productivity. Recognizing an infestation early prevents severe health decline and limits spread to other birds in the loft.
Identification
- Small, grayish‑brown bodies, 2–4 mm long.
- Rapid movement when birds are disturbed.
- Feather damage, feather loss, and visible white or brown debris on perches and nesting material.
- Birds exhibit excessive preening, feather ruffling, and occasional weight loss.
Life cycle
- Eggs (nits) are glued to feather shafts; they hatch in 5–7 days.
- Nymphs mature to adults within 10–14 days.
- A single female can produce 30–40 eggs, allowing rapid population growth.
Effective eradication
- Thorough cleaning of the loft
- Remove all nesting material, perches, and debris.
- Wash bedding, cages, and accessories with hot water (≥ 60 °C) and a detergent that kills insects.
- Disinfect surfaces with a solution of 1 % sodium hypochlorite or an approved veterinary disinfectant; let it remain for at least 10 minutes before rinsing.
- Direct treatment of birds
- Apply a licensed insecticidal spray or powder specifically labeled for avian lice. Follow label dosage precisely; apply to the ventral surface, underwing area, and base of the tail where nits attach.
- For powder, dust the plumage lightly, ensuring coverage without causing respiratory distress. Repeat after 7 days to target newly hatched nymphs.
- Systemic medication
- Administer an oral or injectable antiparasitic drug (e.g., ivermectin) at the recommended dose. This approach eliminates lice that have already fed on the host.
- Environmental control
- Install fine‑mesh screens on loft openings to prevent reinfestation from wild birds.
- Maintain low humidity (below 60 %) and good ventilation; lice thrive in moist conditions.
- Preventive schedule
Monitoring
- After treatment, observe birds for at least two weeks. Absence of movement, feather damage, and debris indicates successful eradication.
- Keep records of treatment dates, products used, and observation results to refine future control measures.
By combining rigorous loft hygiene, targeted chemical or systemic therapy, and regular monitoring, pigeon owners can eliminate lice infestations and maintain a healthy flock.