mites

Question
We have 2 pet pigeons, on the porch, never outside. We've had them for 5 years. All of a sudden they have mites. It looks like rice in their wings.....what can we do to treat them? Thank you...Rhonda

Answer
Hi, Rhonda,

Make sure the "rice" in their wings moves in order to confirm mites.  Buy Sevin Dust that you would use for keeping bugs off your garden flowers/plants.  Sprinkle the powder in the palm of your hand and spread all over the birds feathers (or sprinkle right on the bird's feathers), being careful not to get the powder in the bird's eyes and mouth.  Be sure you get the powder on all the feathers and rub/pat it in.  Be sure to sprinkle the dust as close to the bird's vent as you can get it, as mites seek water from the bird's vent.  You can also use Hill's Flea Spray.  I prefer the powder to the spray.  Reapply the powder daily until you no longer see mites.  You should also sprinkle some of the powder in the bird's bedding.  I recommend you use the Hill's spray in/around where the bird lives.

Chrys