Scaly Leg Mites

[GrammyC]

Hello, I have a rather large backyard flock with a smaller bantam flock that is separated. My bantam's run is quite muddy and I need to figure out how to keep it dry. I have around 16 bantams and noticed some large white scales on two or three of their legs. I've read several online tutorials on how to deal with it, what is the best method? I hate it when my babies are sick. What works the fastest?

 

[nuthatched]

All are going to work at the same rate since the skin has to heal.

 

[Eggcessive]

Welcome. Do you have any pictures of the leg scales? Vicks salve is said by the poultry association to kill mites with the menthol, and then the ointment will also smother them. Other oils that may work are vaseline, castor oil (may be less greasy,) mineral oil, and Nustock cream which has sulfur to kill mites. It has to be applied over weeks until new scales grow in.

Pictures of the run might also help. It might be good to try to guide water away from their run if there is a reason it is staying wet and muddy. Sand can drain well, and some people I know bring in truckloads every year to use it as bedding for coop and runs.