I was lucky enough to participate in a study over the summer to help continue the research for non-toxic and natural solutions to lice and mites. UC Riverside finally released their findings and have written a short communication. Hopefully these detailed images will help everyone to properly identify your chickens lice and/or mite issues. There is a brief write up here and here.
Things have to start somewhere. This study was done because of the increase in backyard chicken's in California. Thus, the department responded to what they had been hearing and seeing. Write a letter or contact a local research department in your town and ask them to do a study.
We have 600 people in our town. Two stoplights in our entire county - not community - county. I am the research department in Cowley! But I am glad you posted this - it will help a lot of people.
Gosh Blooie, did the make the film "Deliverance" in your place? - Banjo players - never trust 'em i say CT