Hey I have a hen that is losing feathers around her neck. I have to have this problem fixed in a couple week for our county fair. If I post a pic, is there anyone that would be able to tell me if it is mites? It happens every once in awhile ever since a rescue bird grabbed ahold of her throat. She is an americauna/easter egger (you can hardly ever be sure which.)
If you see very tiny black/brown bugs crawling around in her feathers, then you've got mites. You can use some DE or Sevin dust to get rid of them. Put the dust in a stocking or sock and 'dust' the bird under all her feathers all over (including her belly). Also dust her nest and the entire coop area. That should take care of them. If you've got other birds, I'd dust them, too Good luck!
It might not be mites. It is possible that she has started molting, which wouldn't be a good thing if you are going to show her. If it is mites, as AlienChick said, Sevin dust or Diatamaceous earth would probably work. If she isn't laying (or if you're not eating the eggs), you could also try Frontline spray for dogs and cats. Adams Flea and Tick Shampoo or spray would also kill the mites.
