What are lime feet actually?
Scaly legs are caused by the scaly leg mite, a microscopic parasite that settles on the legs and toes of chickens. The mites burrow into the skin and feed on the blood vessels in the legs, leading to inflammation, swelling, and sometimes thickening of the skin. The term 'scaly legs' comes from the white, flaky, chalky appearance that is often visible on the legs of affected chickens.
Scaly leg mites
4 December '24 • 1 min reading time
How to recognize scaly leg mites in chickens?
The symptoms of scaly leg mites can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of the infection. Here are some common signs that your chickens may have scaly leg mites: Scaly skin: One of the first signs is the scaly skin on the legs and toes of the chicken. This may appear as a white, chalky layer. Thickening of the skin: As the infection progresses, the skin on the legs may become thicker and flaky scales may develop. Redness and swelling: The legs of the chicken may become red and swollen due to inflammation caused by the parasites. Pain or difficulty walking: If the scaly leg mites are severe, the chicken may have difficulty walking due to the pain caused by the parasites. Loss of feathers around the legs: In severe cases, the chicken may even lose its feathers around the legs, which can lead to further infection.
How are scaly leg mites transmitted?
Scaly leg mites are usually transmitted through direct contact between chickens. When a chicken with scaly leg mites comes into contact with another chicken, the mites can easily move. This can happen through sharing a shelter, feeding troughs, or even through hands or tools that come into contact with infected chickens. This makes it essential to regularly check your chickens, especially when introducing new chickens to the group.
Conclusion
Scaly leg mites are a troublesome problem for chickens, but with the right care and treatment, most chickens can fully recover. It is important to regularly check your chickens and intervene quickly if you notice the symptoms of scaly leg mites. With proper hygiene and effective treatment, you can ensure that your chickens remain happy and healthy. Curious about how to treat your chickens? Feel free to contact us.
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