Scaly Leg Mite In Chickens: How To Spot, Treat And Prevent It

Scaly Leg Mite In Chickens

Scaly leg mite is a common parasite that affects chickens, especially older birds or those kept in less-than-ideal conditions. Left untreated, it can cause serious discomfort, deformities and even lameness. In this post, I’ll explain what scaly leg mite is, how to recognise the signs, and what to do if your chickens become infected.

What is scaly leg mite?

Scaly leg mite is caused by a microscopic parasite called Knemidocoptes mutans. These mites burrow under the scales on a chicken’s legs and feet, causing irritation, inflammation and the buildup of crusty deposits. Unlike lice or red mites that live on the skin or in the coop, scaly leg mites live and breed within the skin tissue of the bird.

How chickens get infected

Scaly leg mites are usually spread through direct contact with an infected bird. The mites can also be transmitted via shared perches, coop floors or bedding. Once introduced, they spread slowly through the flock, often affecting one or two birds first. Older hens and breeds with feathered legs, like Silkies or Pekins, are more vulnerable.

Symptoms of scaly leg mite

Scaly leg mite symptoms usually appear gradually and become more obvious over time. Watch for:

• Raised, crusty scales on the legs or feet
• Lumpy or thickened leg appearance
• Flaking, scabs or discharge
• Lameness or reluctance to walk
• Deformed toes or visible pain

These changes are caused by mites tunnelling under the scales and triggering an inflammatory response. The crusty buildup is a combination of skin debris and dried pus, not the mites themselves.

In more advanced cases, the legs may become severely swollen, discoloured or misshapen. Without treatment, the condition can cause permanent damage.

How to confirm diagnosis

Mild cases can sometimes be mistaken for injury or dermatitis. If you suspect scaly leg mite, the raised, flaky leg scales are usually a giveaway. A vet or experienced poultry keeper may confirm the diagnosis by examining the legs closely. In some cases, a skin scraping under a microscope is used, though this is rarely necessary.

Scaly leg mite treatment

Treating scaly leg mite involves killing the mites, soothing the inflammation and supporting the healing of the skin. Here’s what to do:

1. Clean the legs

Soak the affected legs in warm, soapy water to soften crusts. Gently dry the legs with a towel. I’ve found this helps treatments absorb better too.

2. Apply treatment

Use a poultry-safe anti-mite treatment, such as petroleum jelly, commercial sprays, or Ivermectin drops. Apply directly to the legs, working it into the scales. We keep a tub of petroleum jelly handy and use it for minor leg issues even as a preventative.

Note: While widely available and in common use, Ivermectin is not licensed for poultry in the UK; however, some vets will prescribe it under a cascade prescription. It is crucial to follow the vet’s instructions for dosage and egg withdrawal periods, as it can be harmful to hens if used incorrectly. 

3. Repeat regularly

Reapply treatment every few days for at least two weeks. Mite eggs can hatch after treatment, so a course of applications is needed.

4. Treat the coop

Clean the coop thoroughly and replace bedding. Although scaly leg mites don’t live long off the host, disinfecting perches and nesting areas helps prevent re-infestation.

5. Isolate if necessary

If one chicken has a severe case, it may help to isolate her during treatment to prevent spread and allow for more focused care.

Product tip: Many chicken keepers, myself included, recommend Nettex Scaly Leg Spray, Battle’s Scaly Leg Formula Spray or Battles Poultry Petroleum Jelly. These are easy to apply and help reduce irritation while killing mites.

Preventing scaly leg mite

While scaly leg mite can affect any flock, prevention is often straightforward with good husbandry:

• Regularly check chickens’ legs and feet for early signs
• Keep coops clean, dry and well-ventilated
• Disinfect perches and bedding periodically
• Avoid overcrowding and damp conditions
• Quarantine new birds before introducing them

We check our flock’s legs every few weeks, especially during damp weather when mites seem to thrive. Feathered-leg breeds may need more frequent checks and proactive care. Applying petroleum jelly once a month can help deter mites by creating a barrier.

Can scaly leg mites affect humans?

Scaly leg mites are species-specific and only affect birds. They cannot live or reproduce on humans. Occasionally, handlers may experience mild skin irritation after contact, but this is rare and temporary. Wearing gloves while treating chickens can prevent this.

Final thoughts

Scaly leg mite is unpleasant, but with prompt action it’s manageable. Keepers who regularly inspect their chickens and maintain a clean environment are much less likely to experience outbreaks. I’ve learned that early treatment not only improves comfort and mobility for the bird but also prevents spread through the flock.

For help dealing with other mite infestations, see our post: Mites On Chickens: The Complete Guide

Health disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If you’re unsure about your chicken’s condition or the best course of treatment, always consult with a qualified vet.

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