Poultry red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) is a common external parasite affecting backyard and commercial chickens. These mites hide in cracks, crevices, perch ends and nest boxes during the day and emerge at night to feed on birds.

Heavy infestations can cause irritation, disturbed rest, anaemia, reduced egg production, weight loss and reduced welfare. Red mite infestation is one of the most common parasitic problems seen by chicken vets in Melbourne.

What do red mites look like?

Unfed mites are very small and pale grey. After feeding they commonly appear red or brown. Inspection of perch ends, coop joints and nest boxes is essential. A wipe test along crevices can help detect mites.

Effects of red mite infestation

• Irritation and restlessness
• Pale combs and wattles due to anaemia
• Reduced egg production
• Weight loss and poor condition
• Collapse or death in severe cases

Use of Exzolt for red mite control

Exzolt contains fluralaner and is administered via drinking water under label directions. Mites are exposed when they feed on treated birds. This can assist control when mites are hiding deep within coop structures.

Directions for use and withholding periods vary by country. The product label supplied with Exzolt must always be followed.

Dosing principles

The commonly stated dose is 0.05 mL of product per kilogram of total body weight, administered twice, seven days apart. Always confirm the exact dose on the current label.

• Remove alternative water sources during treatment
• Offer medicated water as the first drink of the day
• Ensure birds are drinking normally
• Repeat the dose seven days later

Worked example

A flock of three 2 kg hens and two 0.5 kg bantams has a total body weight of 7 kg. The required dose is 0.35 mL of product mixed into drinking water consumed during the dosing period.

How much does a 50 mL bottle treat?

Using the formula mL = total body weight (kg) × 0.05, a 50 mL bottle treats 1,000 kg of total bird body weight per treatment day. At an average weight of 2 kg, this equates to approximately 500 chickens per treatment day. A full two dose program would require approximately 100 mL.

Withholding periods

Egg and meat withholding periods depend on the product label for your region. Always check the current label before treating food producing birds.

Coop hygiene and prevention

• Remove and dispose of bedding and nesting material
• Wash and dry coop surfaces thoroughly
• Pay close attention to cracks, perch ends and nest boxes
• Reduce hiding places to limit reinfestation

If birds are anaemic, unwell or not drinking normally, or if infestations are severe, a veterinary consultation is recommended.