Pigeon fanciers are wonderful animals, but unfortunately, they are not exempt from the issue of external parasites. These can cause not only discomfort but also long-term health problems. Rapid identification and treatment of these parasites is essential for healthy breeding. In this article, we will explore the most common types of external parasites, how to recognise and eliminate them, all in a friendly and practical language based on 18 years of experience in the field.

Types of external parasites

The first step in combating external parasites is to know them. The most common types of parasites that affect pigeons include:

  • Fleas: These parasites are small insects that feed on the blood of pigeons. Fleas can easily be found on the skin and in the feathers.
  • Ticks: Usually very hard to spot, ticks can cause extreme itching and discomfort. Pigeons may scratch aggressively to get rid of them.
  • Mites: These small creatures are very common and can affect the skin of the pigeons. Mites can cause inflammation, and in some cases, can lead to death.
  • External candidiasis: There are almost no pigeons that have not dealt with this issue, which involves fungal infections.
  • Beetles: Lice beetles can end up in either the feed or in the lofts where the pigeons stay, and an infestation can cause respiratory difficulties and stress in the birds.

What you need to know

  • Early identification is crucial.
  • Treatment varies depending on the type of parasite.
  • Prevention is key to avoiding long-term health problems.
  • Maintain a clean environment in the loft.
  • Consult a veterinarian periodically for routine checks.

Identifying external parasites

An experienced fancier, like you, will be able to recognise signs of infestation quickly, but sometimes patience is needed. The first signs include:

  • Intense itching, which can lead to feather damage.
  • Lost or damaged feathers.
  • Inflammation or redness on the skin.
  • Agitated behaviour; the pigeons may be less active.
  • The presence of parasite droppings in the loft or in the pigeons’ feed.

For example, a fancier from Bucharest noticed signs of mite infestation in his pigeons. After a few weeks of constant monitoring, he was able to act quickly, using a special spray, which led to a rapid recovery of the birds. This is clear evidence that if you act quickly, problems can be solved on the spot.

Practical tip: Check your pigeons regularly! A careful visual inspection every week can prevent major health issues.

Treatment of external parasites

Once you have identified the type of parasite, it is time to take action. Treatment varies depending on the type of infestation:

1. Fleas

An effective remedy is to use an insecticidal spray specific for cattle and sheep, which can be applied to the birds. This does not affect the health of the pigeon and destroys fleas immediately. In practice, many fanciers choose products that have permethrin as the active ingredient, an effective insecticide. It is recommended to follow...