Is this Scaly Leg Mites?

[YellowDMG]

We have a 6 year old Easter Egger that has some beat up looking scales on her legs that may be lifting. I'm not sure if this is normal scale wear, molting, or a disease/parasite. Does anyone have suggestion on what may be happening here?

Images below. The last image is after we used a soft toothbrush with some soapy water to scrub the scales a bit.

I'm hesitant to do the Vaseline treatment for leg mites because we have done it in the past and find that the jelly tends to get on the birds feathers and it unclear if the treatment is effective.

Thank you!

 

[AmeraucanaHank]

She might have a very slight scaly leg. Here's an Awesome article about it, by:All4Eggz:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/treating-scaly-leg-mites-slm-what-you-need-to-know.77376/

 

[Eggcessive]

Yes, that is early scaly leg mites. Vaseline or even better, castor oil is used to smother the leg mites twice a week. The latter may be less greasy, but it usually doesn’t matter if they dust bathe, dirt justs sticks and is fine. Some use ivermectin pour on on the back of the neck 0.1 ml per every 2 pounds of weight once and again in 14 days, but then you would need to toss out eggs for 2-3 weeks afterward.

 

[YellowDMG]

Thank you both! We'll try the Vaseline method for several weeks and see if there's any change in the appearance.

 

[Eggcessive]

The castor oil sounds less messy, and I have read where it may be applied less frequently. Most drug stories have it in the laxative aisle, but you can get larger quantities online. Walmart sells a 32 ounce bottle for about $14 online.

 

[JacksonChickies]

Yes, that is early scaly leg mites. Vaseline or even better, castor oil is used to smother the leg mites twice a week. The latter may be less greasy, but it usually doesn’t matter if they dust bathe, dirt justs sticks and is fine. Some use ivermectin pour on on the back of the neck 0.1 ml per every 2 pounds of weight once and again in 14 days, but then you would need to toss out eggs for 2-3 weeks afterward.

Could you use black castor oil...like used in hair care?

 

[YellowDMG]

Just a heads up, I took this bird to an avian vet and the vet advised that this looks typical for an older hen and did not think this was due to mites (Cleo, the hen in the photos above is ~6 years old). I also checked with a friend that has kept older birds and they've seen similar scales on their birds.

I'm not ruling out scaly leg mites and will keep watching for changes, but just wanted to let anyone else who finds this post know in case they're facing a similar situation.

The vet also mentioned that Cleo has cataracts in both eyes (I only knew about one eye), might have a little arthritis, and is a bit fat for a hen her age... but overall seems healthy for an older hen.

Will post an update if I find out anything more. Thanks!

 

[AmeraucanaHank]

Just a heads up, I took this bird to an avian vet and the vet advised that this looks typical for an older hen and did not think this was due to mites (Cleo, the hen in the photos above is ~6 years old). I also checked with a friend that has kept older birds and they've seen similar scales on their birds.

I'm not ruling out scaly leg mites and will keep watching for changes, but just wanted to let anyone else who finds this post know in case they're facing a similar situation.

The vet also mentioned that Cleo has cataracts in both eyes (I only knew about one eye), might have a little arthritis, and is a bit fat for a hen her age... but overall seems healthy for an older hen.

Will post an update if I find out anything more. Thanks!

good! I have one question was taking her to an avian vet expensive?

 

[YellowDMG]

It was $68 where I live in the Pacific Northwest. That's just for an examination, no meds or tests. I imagine it varies quite a bit by location.

 

[Kriscam]

Thank you both! We'll try the Vaseline method for several weeks and see if there's any change in the appearance.

I'm in the same boat - not exactly sure if my girls have it/them, but leaning toward yes. I read the gasoline dip method in the Chicken Chick's book, but was hesitant because gasoline is so toxic and harsh. I read the article Ameraucana Hank shared and I'm going to try the rubbing alcohol method it mentioned. I'm going to try cleaning with baby wash, alcohol dip, then A&D ointment to soften and moisturize. Please keep us posted on your progress!