Figure 41. Life cycle of pigeon lice.
(2) Habits ([fig. 41]). In order to combat lice properly and intelligently, it is necessary to know something about where and how they feed, live, and breed.
(a) Adult lice live on the skin and feathers of the bird and only rarely leave the pigeon. When accidentally dislodged, they crawl very short distances to other birds. Lice cannot live longer than a few days away from the birds.
(b) Lice eat bits of feathers, scales, and other debris off the skin. They do not suck blood.
(c) Female lice lay eggs (nits) along the shafts of the feathers, particularly on the primary coverts.
(d) Louse eggs hatch in 10 to 14 days.
(e) Young lice eat, molt (3 to 5 times), and grow to maturity in about 14 days.
(3) Diagnosis. Infested pigeons are restless and constantly pick and scratch in an effort to dislodge the lice. Heavily infested birds may become weak and thin because the constant annoying movement of lice interferes with their proper relaxation and rest. Careful examination of the birds will reveal the lice.
