What are the ectoparasites of the domestic pigeon?

When we talk about ectoparasites of pigeons we mostly think about all the vermin on the outside of the pigeon (for example lice, ticks and mites). Some ectoparasites, like the long feather louse (Columbicola columbae), are very frequently seen in pigeon lofts. This feather louse which is quite harmless places his eggs against the feather shaft and only feeds himself with the feather debris.

An other, more alarming ectoparasite, is the coccyx louse (Campanulotes bidentatus), who is sitting under the feathers on the coccyx. Mostly pigeons in a bad condition are confronted with this infection. Also the different feather mites can be present on the beard of the flight feather but they also only feed themselves with the feather debris.

Mainly we find infections with feather scabies (Neoknemidocoptes) and very rarely we also see a case of leg scabies (Knemidocoptes mutans).

Pigeons who also have anemia and are strongly weakened have to be checked always for bloodmites (Dermanyssus gallinae). This mite lives in the cracks of the pigeon loft and only appears at night to suck large amounts of blood. This can cause serious anemia for the young birds and even death.