Specific insecticides to control these pests along with precautions, restrictions and application rates are presented in EC 89-1551, Nebraska Management Guide for Control of Arthropod Pests of Poultry and Pets , which is available from University of Nebraska Extension Offices . The most common in Nebraska are brown chicken lice and chicken body lice. Less important are large chicken lice, shaft lice, chicken head lice, fluff lice, and several other species which are rarely present. Poultry lice chew dry skin scales and feathers, but do not suck blood. Irritation from louse feeding and movement on birds causes appetite loss, weakened condition and susceptibility to diseases.
Egg production is reduced, and heavily infested birds refuse to eat and gradually lose weight.
Lice can be observed moving on the skin when feathers are parted, especially around the vent, head and under wings. Control of poultry lice requires treating the birds since lice remain on the bird throughout its life. Treat by dipping, dusting, or spraying the birds, and be careful to avoid contaminating eggs, feed and water. Treatment is easiest at night when birds are quiet. For best results, split treatments with half of the recommended amount of insecticide applied initially, and the second half applied soon after the first, since the wet feathers retain more active ingredient.