Pigeons have lice — what to do? - briefly
Inspect the birds, apply a veterinary‑approved pediculicide, and enhance coop sanitation to eliminate the infestation. Maintain routine cleaning and periodic health checks to prevent recurrence.
Pigeons have lice — what to do? - in detail
Pigeons afflicted with lice require prompt intervention to prevent health decline and spread to other birds. Lice infestations cause feather damage, irritation, and reduced flight efficiency. Effective control involves several coordinated steps.
First, confirm the presence of ectoparasites through visual inspection. Look for tiny, brownish insects moving among feathers, feather loss, or excessive preening. Collect a sample for microscopic identification if the species is uncertain.
Second, isolate the affected birds. Place them in a clean, well‑ventilated enclosure separate from the main flock to limit transmission. Clean all surfaces, perches, and feeding equipment with a diluted disinfectant (e.g., quaternary ammonium solution at 0.1 %). Allow the area to dry completely before reintroducing birds.
Third, apply an appropriate acaricide. Options include:
- Topical sprays containing pyrethrins or permethrin, applied directly to the plumage according to label dosage.
- Dust formulations of diatomaceous earth or silica‑based powders, spread over perches and nesting material.
- Oral treatments such as ivermectin, administered under veterinary supervision for severe cases.
Follow the product’s withdrawal period and repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice that escaped the initial dose.
Fourth, implement preventive measures. Regularly clean lofts, replace bedding, and provide adequate sunlight, as ultraviolet exposure reduces parasite viability. Rotate perches and nesting boxes weekly, and perform monthly health checks to detect early infestations.
Finally, document all actions. Record dates of inspection, treatment type, dosage, and observed outcomes. Maintaining detailed logs assists in evaluating program effectiveness and adjusting protocols when needed.