There are many types of treatments people use. Since these very small mites (Knemidocoptes mutans) are hidden underneath leg and foot scales, a topical must penetrate underneath the scales. The added benefit of a miticide adds a bang to treatment. I use a product called Nustrock, which is a natural mange treatment composed of sulfur, pine oil, & mineral oil in a tube. I used to keep a sulfur salve on hand but cannot find it anymore. Anyway, Nustock is like a paste, so I like to thin it to the consistency of paint. I add Jojoba oil to thin it in a 6 oz plastic tub with a screw on cap. I always keep a box of disposable nitrile gloves and baby wipes on hand. I Inspect legs regularly and if I see any evidence of scaley mites (raised scales) I wear a head lamp, take each hen off the roost at night, cradle her in one arm, massage the solution up and down the entire legs and toes, so it penetrates under scales like Seminole mentioned. A couple times a week should clear it up in a month on average depending on how bad the infestation is. Older birds seem more likely to get this condition than younger birds.
Keeping the roosts treated with a good roost paint every month or two makes a difference. Roosts need to be treated top, sides, and bottom. Emulsified concentrates have more residual and there are a number of products labeled safe for use on and around poultry. Gardstar 40%, Ravap EC, Atroban 11% EC are a few which work very well. Always follow label instructions, of course. I have experimented with natural use of orange oil, neem oil, etc. over the years and none worked as a preventative. When I was a kid, my Dad used a solution of diesel oil thinned with kerosene or Black Leaf 40 (nicotine sulfate) diluted with oil, which were very effective. I don't recommend those treatments anymore, and Black Leaf 40 was taken off the market in the early 90's I think.
