How to get rid of ticks on pigeons? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑approved «acaricide» spray on the birds and perches, adhering to the recommended dosage. Maintain loft hygiene by eliminating droppings, replacing bedding, and discarding heavily infested nests.
How to get rid of ticks on pigeons? - in detail
Ticks on pigeons cause irritation, anemia, and can transmit diseases. Effective control requires a systematic approach that includes detection, treatment, and prevention.
First, inspect birds daily. Look for small, reddish‑brown parasites attached to the skin, especially around the vent, legs, and under the wings. Remove visible ticks with fine tweezers, grasping close to the skin to avoid leaving mouthparts embedded.
Next, apply an appropriate acaricide. Recommended products include:
- Permethrin‑based sprays, applied sparingly to the bird’s plumage and skin, avoiding the eyes and beak.
- Ivermectin drops, administered at 0.2 mg/kg body weight, repeated after seven days to eliminate newly hatched larvae.
- Fipronil‑based powders, dusted lightly on perches and nesting material, ensuring birds do not ingest excess.
Follow manufacturer dosage instructions precisely. After treatment, monitor birds for adverse reactions such as respiratory distress or feather loss. If symptoms appear, discontinue the product and consult a veterinarian.
Environmental management reduces re‑infestation risk. Implement the following measures:
- Clean and disinfect lofts weekly with a diluted bleach solution (1 % concentration). Allow surfaces to dry completely before re‑introducing birds.
- Replace bedding with fresh, low‑moisture material. Dispose of old litter in sealed bags.
- Install physical barriers, such as fine mesh screens, to prevent wild rodents and insects from entering the loft.
- Conduct regular ectoparasite inspections of surrounding vegetation and control stray animal populations that may serve as tick reservoirs.
Finally, maintain a vaccination schedule and provide balanced nutrition to support the immune system, enhancing the birds’ resistance to parasite‑borne illnesses. Consistent application of these steps eliminates ticks and safeguards pigeon health.