Having a pet outside, like a duck, means that you as an owner will have to monitor their health for any issues, such as external parasites. If an infestation plagues your flock, you will need to treat your birds to rid them of any bugs effectively.
When your flock has an infestation of parasites, you will notice a decrease in egg production and weight loss in your birds. In addition, these annoying bugs will irritate your duck as they attach to the skin and feathers, preventing your duck from sleeping, resting, or eating correctly.
Types of External Parasites Found on Ducks
Domestic ducks are prone to several external parasites that can make your pet very uncomfortable, or they can even be fatal if left untreated. Although these problems are more prevalent in unclean areas, even birds in the tidiest coops and run can contract parasites.
Some types of external parasites that you can find on ducks include:
- Fleas
- Lice
- Mites
- Ticks
You can take care of all these annoying bugs if you spot them on your pet duck or in their coop and run. They can last anywhere from three days up to three weeks, depending on the species, so it is important to treat your flock as soon as you see a problem. You do not want these parasites living out their lifecycle on your domestic duck and multiplying. Without intervention, bugs will create a significant infestation, making them more challenging to remove.
Fleas
If you were wondering, can ducks get fleas, the answer is yes. Although, these fleas do differ from those you will find on cats or dogs. They are extremely small and can jump high in the air, similar to fleas on animals with hair.
They are dark brown and feast on the blood of your duck. You can find them around a duck’s eyes if you have an issue in the coop or run. Unfortunately, these parasites will also bite humans if given the opportunity.
Lice
Much like human lice, these parasites will bite and chew on the skin of their host. They live within a duck’s feathers and may go unnoticed for some time until a large infestation occurs. These external parasites are light brown with elongated bodies. If there is a large infestation, you may notice bugs throughout the feathers or on the skin of your duck.
Ducks will excessively preen themselves and pull out feathers as they become more uncomfortable. Feathers will look dull, and if they lose a significant amount of feathers, they could die from being too cold. In addition, egg production will decrease, and your bird may lose weight from not eating or resting enough.
Mites
Several species of mites can plague your duck, each with its disastrous effects. They include:
- Depluming mite
- Northern fowl mite
- Red poultry mite
- Scaly leg mite
You can find mites on the head and neck of your duck, except for the scaly leg mite, which can cause the legs and feet to be red and swollen. It is easier to see mites on white or light-colored birds, where dark-colored birds can go untreated due to not seeing a visible infestation.
Scaly leg mites can cause lameness and are not typically prevalent in ducks, but it can happen, so knowing what to look for is essential. Other mites can cause skin irritation, loss of feathers, and even death if they are a host for the red poultry mite. If your duck shares a living space with chickens, it could be vulnerable to all of these parasites at some time.
Ticks
Ticks can cause a severe problem for ducks if left undetected. They are small and range in color from blue to brown. They are incredibly hardy and can live in trees and walls without food for several years. Ticks will bite at night, cause your ducks to stop laying eggs, and create paralysis if left untreated.
Can Ducks Get Sick and Die from External Parasites?
Although fleas, ticks, and other external parasites are troublesome, they will generally not cause death in your domestic duck unless you do not provide a remedy. Consequently, they can cause your bird to become anemic as they feast on your pet, using them for a host of nutrients. If left without any preventative intervention, ducks can lose feathers, be lethargic and eventually die.
Duck Parasite Treatment
If you have found any external parasites on your pet duck, you must act quickly to rid them of these hazardous bugs. The sooner you can provide relief for your bird, the better.
A powder or spray works wonders for taking care of fleas, mites, ticks, and lice. Talk to your veterinarian about an approved chemical product that will be successful at getting rid of the parasites and follow the directions closely to ensure proper treatment.
You should regularly check their feathers, head, and neck for any remaining bugs and continue treatment for up to two weeks or more as necessary. Getting rid of external parasites swiftly and correctly will be critical in keeping your duck happy and healthy.
Thoroughly clean out the coop and runs and any space where your duck spends their time. You want to be sure that once the parasites are gone, there is not a second infestation.
The Takeaway
Ducks can get several external parasites, including lice, ticks, mites, and fleas. If you bring any new birds into your flock, ensure that you quarantine them for several weeks if they are carrying external parasites. This method will keep a large infestation from plaguing your entire flock.
Keep your domestic duck’s coop and run area clean and regularly check them over for any external parasites. Preventative measures will be your best defense against these troublesome bugs. If you find any issues, talk to your veterinarian for the best resolution to help your birds so you can avoid any severe side effects. With immediate treatment, you can save your pet from being uncomfortable or even death.