What Are Duck Mites?

Duck mites are parasitic insects that feed on ducks and other types of poultry. Ducks housed with other poultry or kept in poor conditions are particularly susceptible. Duck mites have eight legs and are usually found in the duck's head and neck region. A heavy mite infestation can cause loss of feathers, weight loss, lethargy and, in severe cases, death. However, infestation is treatable with insecticide powders. You should consult with your veterinarian if you suspect that your ducks are affected by mites.

  1. Types

    • Four different types of mites affect ducks -- red poultry mites, northern fowl mites, scaly leg mites and depluming mites. However, unless ducks are housed with or kept in close contact with other poultry, they are only affected by the northern fowl mite.

    Features

    • The northern fowl mite lives on the duck all the time and is the most common type of external poultry parasite, particularly in cooler climates. Northern fowl mites, which are bloodsuckers, are black or brown and are usually spread by contact between ducks. The red roost mite lives in the woodwork of the poultry house. It sucks blood from ducks and other poultry at night, and hides in the poultry house during the day. Scaly leg mites manifest on the legs and feet and can cause swelling and tenderness in those areas. Mites affecting ducks can have a life cycle of just 10 days, which can cause a heavy infestation.

    Symptoms

    • Scratching, weight loss and a decreased appetite are common symptoms of mites. If a duck's eyes are not clear and bright, it can also indicate a heavy infestation. Mites are clearly visible on white ducks, but it is difficult to spot them on colored ones. Because mites, with the exception of the scaly leg mite, usually only affect ducks' head and neck region, scratching around those areas is a clear symptom.

    Prevention

    • Keeping ducks healthy and housing them in a clean, sanitary environment are the best forms of prevention. Healthy ducks that have access to plenty of water will remove parasites themselves with regular washing and preening. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting housing facilities also keeps mites at bay.

    Treatment

    • Insecticide powders can treat duck mites and other external parasites. Two treatments are usually needed over an eight- to 10-day period, to kill both mites and their eggs. Avoid getting powder or spray into the duck's eyes when you are treating it for mite infestation.