Chicken seems to have some sort of parasite eggs on vent feathers

[geoh]

I have 2 older chickens ~ 3 years old and 2 laying pullets

The older chickens have had a history of diarrhoea but never managed to properly diagnose it. Was not particularly concerned as they were still laying and diarrhoea was not all the time.

On a closer look we've recently noticed some cluster of what are probably some parasite eggs on the vent feathers. See attached picture (seeds are there just to help the camera focus).

Also their eggs seem to have the shells spotted and the egg yolk separates from egg white when cracked open. See attached pictures.

Can you guys please help me diagnose the parasitosis?

Many thanks,
George

 

[Morrigan]

Egg sacs at the ends of feathers usually means lice. Treat by powdering chickens around the vent and under wings with Permethrin (usually sold under the name Poultry or Garden Dust). It easiest to do this at night. Pull hens one at a time off the roost and dust (make sure to wear a mask or bandana around your nose and mouth). Also change out the bedding in the coop and spray/powder down the roost bars. Repeat entire operation after 10 days to kill newly hatched eggs.

Not sure what effect his is having on the eggs, but getting rid of the lice is a good first step.

 

[PirateGirl]

This has really good pics to help identify different parasites/lice/mites/etc.

https://the-chicken-chick.com/poultry-lice-and-mites-identification/

 

[geoh]

Thank you for your replies, it was all very helpful.

I do happen to have Pyrethrin lice powder and will apply that.