Bird scabies: How to recognise and treat this parasitic disease

Avian scabies, also known as psoroptes, is a contagious disease caused by microscopic arachnids called psoroptes. These small organisms, which are distant relatives of spiders, are external parasites and usually spend their entire lives on the body of their host. In birds, the species of the genus Knemidocoptes are dominant. These mites do not pose a threat to humans, but they can become a problem in bird breeding, especially in chicken coops, where disinfection and pest control may be necessary.

How does scabies mite infection occur?

The main way in which the disease is transmitted is through direct contact with an infected bird. The disease spreads quickly, especially among species with a social character, such as budgerigars. Among the popular ornamental birds kept in our homes, it is these friendly birds that are most often attacked by sarcoptic mange mites. In chicken coops, especially large ones, it may be necessary to carry out pest control and disinfection to prevent the disease from spreading.

What are the symptoms of avian scabies?

The symptoms of psoroptosis can appear long after infection – sometimes after several months or even years. Factors that can trigger the onset of symptoms are stress, poor diet, a deterioration in living conditions or a weakened immune system due to other illnesses. In parrots, the first symptoms often appear on the beak and wattles, less often on the feet. Parasite-infected areas can be seen as spongy growths of a greyish, white or yellowish colour with a porous surface cut by numerous tubules and holes.

Treatment of psoroptes

In the early stages of the disease, the affected areas can be lubricated with pure paraffin oil or petroleum jelly, which are intended to suffocate the mites by cutting off their access to air. This is effective, provided that the disease is correctly diagnosed, which can be difficult for a non-specialist. It is therefore recommended that the treatment of sarcoptic mange be entrusted to a veterinarian.

In advanced stages of the disease, pharmacological treatment is necessary, which consists of administering drugs that kill the parasites. These drugs are administered orally or externally. Sick birds should be provided with the best possible conditions, an optimal diet and peace and quiet. In addition, in the case of chicken coops, disinfection and disinsection may be necessary to prevent the disease from spreading further.

When the first symptoms of mange are noticed, a visit to the vet should not be delayed. The sooner treatment is started, the better for your pet. In addition, irreversible changes can occur in advanced stages of the disease, such as the destruction of the horny layer of the beak or the cuticle.