Continued heavy infestations can kill the birds. Scaly-leg mites burrow under the skin, especially on the lower legs and feet. Legs become scaly, swollen, and exude lymph fluid. Severely infested birds may be crippled or unable to walk. In addition to treating with insecticides, legs may be dipped in a mixture of two parts raw linseed oil and kerosene.
Control mites by treating their hiding places.
Treat roosts, walls, litter, and equipment by painting, spraying, or dusting. Treat all cracks, crevices, and rough spots. As a general practice, even in the absence of a known infestation of insects or mites, the poultry house should be treated at least twice a year. The treatment should include a thorough cleaning of the house and an insecticide application. The common bedbug and several other closely related insects feed on poultry.