Scaly Leg Mite

Scaly Leg Mite (Knemidocoptes mutans) causes the scales on birds legs to thicken and look like they are raised / protruding outwards, rather that laying flat.

Causes

Treatment

Vasaline (Petroleum Jelly) can be used to treat Scaly Leg Mites. If done on a regular basis (usually every few days) this suffocates the mites and they die. It will also soften the skin. It can take up to 10 days to get rid of all of the mites. In addition to this, dipping the legs into surgical spirit weekly will help to kill the mites. Ivermectin drops are sometimes prescribed by vets to kill the mites.

For feathered legged birds like Cochins or Pekin Bantams, Vasaline can make a mess of the feathers which can then pick up lots of dirt. In this case, surgical spirit could be used on its own. Dip their legs in it weekly.

The scales will take a while to regrow back after treatment, usually a year.