Scaly Leg Mite
Scaly Leg Mites and Depluming Mites are two closely related mites which both belong to the genus Knemidocoptes.
The Scaly Leg Mite (Knemidocoptes mutans) commonly infests on older hens.
Causes
This mite burrows underneath the scales of the leg causing damaged tissue, often with white crusting and seepage of tissue fluid, sometimes this may become infected. This burrowing causes irritation, raised scales and crusting. You will notice thickened and raised leg scales and sometimes signs of inflammation and infection.
In the early stages the affected bird will be no more than mildly irritated by the Scaly Leg Mites but as the scales become thickened and the mites cause more extensive damage the affected legs will become very painful.
It is important to note that it takes several months for the scales of the legs to become raised and consequently to heal again after treatment.
Treatment
Treatment of the Scaly Leg Mite involves killing the mites and softening the roughened scales.
A solution of Dergall(10ml in 1 litre of water) can be used to gently cleanse the legs, with the aid of a soft tooth brush or cloth. Once legs are dry, dip the foot and the leg in the Dergall solution, as Dergall will suffocate the scaly leg mite and also help the legs to heal due to its bactericidal properties.
Ivermectin 1% spot on drops are advised too, but it is important to note that Ivermectin is not licensed for chickens and as such the prescribing vet needs to set an appropriate egg withdrawal period and if appropriate, a meat withdrawal period.
Smothering the legs in Vaseline will help to soften the scales on the leg and to suffocate the mites. Scales can take twelve months to heal and completely regenerate so be patient as it takes a really long time to see an improvement.
Sudocrem can also be used on the legs, it soothes their legs and contains Benzyl Benzoate which is an ingredient that helps to kill the mites too.
Which ever method you decide to use; remember the fact that the mite’s life cycle is completed in 14 to 21 days, so be sure to re-treat around 21 days to catch any of the mites you may have missed.
You will need to repeat this treatment several times until you see signs of healing.
