POULTRY NOTES

Dominion, Volume 29, Issue 202, 23 May 1936, Page 26

POULTRY NOTES

Common Insect Pests

CONTROL OF LICE AND RED MITE

(By

New Laid.)

Many poultry-keepers who pay strict attention to red mite, lice, etc., during tlie warm weather when these pests, if not attacked vigorously, multiply at an alarming rate, are inclined to let up in their fight against parasites during the colder weather, and ns a result production frequently suffers. There is no "off season” for poultry parasites, and poul-try-keepers should always be on the alert for them, particularly for lice on the males in the breeding pens during the immediate future. The various parasites differ in their habits. For example, lice, the depluming mite, and the scalyleg mite live and breed on their hosts. The red mite and fleas, on the other hand, only visit the birds to feed on them. These points have to be kept in mind when attempting to control or eradicate the parasites mentioned. Most poultry-keepers realise the loss that can be inflicted by the common insect pests, and know how to combat them, and while the following remarks by Mr. Leonard Robinson in the official organ of the Scientific Poultry Breeders’ Association break no new ground, they serve to remind poultry-keepers that these pests are an ever-present menace to the health and productivity of their flocks. Lice Infestation.

There are a number of different species of lice commonly found on poultry, but since the methods of treatment are similar it is unnecessary for the practical poultryman to have an intimate knowledge of the numerous varieties. It is interesting to note, however, that several distinct species attack fowls, turkeys, geese, pigeons, etc. Not only have they specific hosts, but many species are found on certain parts of the body and will not migrate to other parts. The body louse, a very common species, is found on the skin, especially around the vent. It is of pale yellow colour with dark spots. The head lou.-$£ is dark grey and may be found by parting the feathers of the head and neck. It is a common pest and frequently attacks chickens, especially when reared with hens.

The wing louse lives among the primary and secondary feathers, and its presence will be indicated by the serrated appearance of the web. There are many other species of importance, but these need not be discussed, as the methods of treatment are the same for all lice.

Tn common with other insect pests, lice are injurious because they are usually present in vast numbers. A few lice would do no special harm, but once on the birds they multiply very rapidly indeed, and unless prompt action is taken the effect on the stock will become serious. Lice are not blood suckers. If blood is drawn it is probably accidental, but they set up irritation, prevent the birds obtaining sufficient rest, and the effects will soon be apparent. The birds should be examined from time to time. Lice are usually found around the vent, in the vicinity of the tail, and beneath the wings or on the head; these parts should receive special attention. The presence of clusters of greyish white “nits” or eggs on the feathers is, of course, proof that the birds are infested, and no further evidence need be sought. The introduction of nicotine sulphate (perch paint) has revolutionised methods of destroying lice, and few poultrykeepers now dress their birds individually with sodium fluoride or other powder. Perch paint consists of a 40 per cent, solution of nicotine sulphate which is simply painted on the perches half an hour or so before dusk. The heat of the birds' bodies evaporates the nicotine, and the vapour kills the lice and most of the nits, but as some of the latter may survive, the application should be repeated in the course of a week. One pint of nicotine sulphate is sufficient for 250 ft. of perch. Manufacturers’ directions should be followed, for if the application is too liberal, especially in houses that are not well ventilated, the birds will become distressed and cough for several days. Cases have been known where a heavy dressing has caused flocks of laying pullets to moult. In slatted floor houses the solution may be applied to every second or third "slat, or if preferred, temporary perches may be fixed over the slats and the solution applied to the perches. More recently the practice of dressing the birds themselves has become popular, especially with battery operators. It may be applied to one hock or to the fluff, but only a very small quantity is required. A short stroke with a small camel hair brush is sufficient. Again, a second application is advised in the course of a few days. This treatment is effective, simple and cheap. For those who prefer to use powder, sodium fluoride, freshly prepared pyrethrum powder, or one of the nicotine powders used in horticulture can be recommended, a “pinch” being applied to different parts of the bird. Sodium fluoride is a powerful irritant, and the operator should wear a damp doth over his nose and mouth. It is also poisonous, and should not, therefore, contaminate food or water. In view of these properties it. is not now so popular as it was years ago. Pyrethrum powder, if freshly prepared, is quite effective, aud one application should be sufficient.

Worst Type of Bloodsucker. The red mite is a bloodsucker of the worst type. Many poultry-keepers do not realise the injurious effect these mites have on birds, especially growing stock, nor do they realise that infestation may occur very rapidly, especially during hot weather. They are extremely prolific, and in a very short time millions of them may be found beneath the perches or slats, in cracks and crevices, in door jambs, behind dry mash hoppers or other biding places. They feed on the birds only at night, and having gorged themselves with the fowls’ blood, retire to their hiding places, where they spend the day. Fortunately this habit furnishes the opportunity for their destruction. If the mites are present they will be found in clusters, particularly beneath the perches or slats and in the vicinity thereof. They are grey in colour, except when gorged with blood, when they are red — hence the name red mite. They are readily destroyed with paraffin, paraffin emulsion, creosote or a 5 per cent, solution or a good coal tar disinfectant. In normal circumstances periodical applications of one of these insecticides will keep the parasites under control, the perches, etc., being painted or sprayed with the solution. but the application must be a liberal one. all crevices being flooded. If the case has been neglected it will be necessary to adopt more drastic measures. Perches, droppings boards, nest boxes and other loose fittings should be removed, scrubbed or sprayed and left to dry in the sun. The litter should be removed and the interior of the house thoroughly sprayed. As the red mite enn survive for several months without a host, direct action is necessary. It is no use leaving the house vacant and relying on the time factor to kill the mite by starvation.

Laryngo-Trachcitis. No outbreaks of laryngo-trachcitis have been reported in New South Wales for several weeks. The authorities are gratified at. the way the disease has eased, but they point out that sporadic occurrence is to be expected from time to time, and advise purchases of stock and breeders to be on the alert. The chief veterinary surgeon of New South Wales Department of Agriculture (Mr. M. Henry), stated that he was not prepared to say that the action taken by the department and by poultry-farm-ers in co-operation, had been responsible for a more or less general clean up of laryngo-trachcitis, or whether it was one of those diseases which might appear in intensified form one season, and then

be dormant for several years. The liability of recurrence was always present. The Victorian Government has lifted the ban it had placed on New South Wales poultry, but Tasmania maintains its prohibition of imports of birds from New South Wales. State Assistance. Poultry-keepers are fortunate in that they have at call experts of the Poultry Division of the Department of Agriculture to advise them in any problems that may puzzle them, but it is doubtful if as much use is made of this service as could be done. The chief poultry instructor (Mr. C. .1. Cu«sin), or his assistant are always ready to give advice on any disease which may appear, on proper feeding, correct housing, mating, rearing, etc., and if application is made they will, wherever possible, arrange to address poultrymen of any particular district on any special phase of the industry that may be suggested. EGG-LAYING CONTESTS Massey College Results In the egg-laying contest conducted at Massey College, the eighth week results are as follows: — SINGLE PENS. Section A.—A. G. Mumby, W.L., No. 1, 5—43; R. M. Smith. W.L., No. 1, 0—43; Miss 11. Reddell. W.L., No. 2. 5—41; A. G. Mumby. W.L.. No. 2, 5—41; G. E. Moody. W.L.. 5—10; Rangluru Egg Ranch. W.L.. No. 3 5—39; Miss H. Reddell, W.L., No. 1 5—38; Mrs. C. A. Stratford, W.L., 4— F. Ecob. W.L., 5-36; J. Reilly. W.L., No 2, 4—32; A. A. Hoare. W.L., No. 2. 5—30; A. G. Mumby, W.L., No. 3, 1— 30; AG. Mumby, IV.L., No. 4. 3—30; Miss E. Ladd. W.L.. 5—29: A. E. Salisbury. W.L., No. 3. 0 —24: A. A. Hoare. W.L., No. I, 0—23; E. B. Wainscott. W.L., 0—23; .1. A. Annan, W.L., 0—22; M. Stephenson. W.L., 0—19; R. M. Smith, W..L., No. 2. 5— 18; Rangluru Egg Ranch. W.L., No. 2, 0—17: Rangluru Egg Ranch, W.L., No. 1, 0—16; A. E. Salisbury, W.L.. No. 1, 5—16; Mrs. B. B. Andrews. W.L., 0 —14; J. Reilly, W.L.. No. 1. 6—l3r; A. E. Salisbury, W.L., No. 2. 0—13; C. L. W. Urquhart, W.L.. s—l3r : ,T. Mold, W.L.. o—9; Moreland Bros., W.L., s—B: 11. Polson, W.L., o—3; F. H. Paddy, Mln.. 3—3; C. 11. Barker, W.L., No. 1. 0—0; No. 2 o—o. Section B. —T. Dowthwaite. 8.0.. No. 2, 6— No. 3. 6—16; F. Seymour, 8.0.. 5— 44; J. H. Sutton, A. 0., 5—44; A. E. Salisbury, A. 0., No. 3, 6—44: Norman Ross, B. 5—42; R. Feist, R.1.R., No. 2, 6— 39; John Walker. A. 0.. 5—38: T. Dowthwaite, 8.0.. No. 1. 6—36; A. E. Salisbury. A. 0.. No. 1, 4—33; R. M. Smith. 8.0., 7 —22; W. A. Larsen, A. 0., 4 —20; A. E. Salisbury, A. 0., No. 2, 3—16; Mrs. Norman Ross. A. 0., 6—13; R. Feist, R.1.R., No. i, 4—10; G. A. Edge. R.1.R., 0-0; J. D. Rowlands, R.1.R., o—o. TEAM RESULTS. Section C. (All W.L.). Argvle Poultry Farm 31, 35, 28, 30, 29, 34, (19), 187. fr. Ecob, No. 2, 34 , 33, 12. 36, 33, 29, (18) 177. E. B. Wainscott, 33, 20, 21, 29, 40. 27, (19) 170. C. L. W. Urquhart, 23, 24. 29, 38, 18, 31, (16). 163. J. Graham, 16. 33, 32. 30, 24, 22. (14), 157. F. Ecob, No. 1, 33, 21. 43. 8, 13, 34, (23), IO S. D. Morris, 25, 14, 21, 28, 13, 39, (8), 140. S. G. Batten. 9, 21, 13. 37, 25, 32, (8), 137. Cotswold Poultry Farm. 16, 28, 35. 38, 0, 16. (10), 133. Penrose Poultry Ltd., 2.i, 21, 2, 14. oj. 16, (9). 113. E. W. Thompson, 14, 19. 3S. 17, 7, 10, (5). 105. „ „ Mrs G. E. Sewell, IS. 24. 28, 14, 8. 0. (4). 92. ,T. T. Hazelwood, 25, 17, 3, 13. 11, 22, (0 D. M. Peck. 3. 9. 38. 1. 4. 34. (9), 89. _ A. E. Salisbury, 16, 22. 12, 0, 0. 22, (S), M. Stephenson. 2, 31. 20, 0, 11. 8. (6). 72. J. Wilson. 0. 0, 15. 13, 21. 19 (4), 68. R. Forlong, 9r, 0. 5. 22. 25. 6, (15). 67. Miss H. Reddell, 14, 19. 2.0, 14, 12. (0), 61 H. Polson, 14. 0, O. 24. 13. 0. (11), 31. J. J. Faulkner, 11, 25, 0,0, 0, 10. (4), A. J. Hudson. 16. 13, 0,1, 15. 0. (7). 45. Mrs. B. B. Andrews, 4, S, 10, 1, 1. S, (0), 32. Section D. Cotswold Poultry Farm, A. 0., 41. 26, 44. 7. 37. 17 (17), 172. Mrs. D. M. Waddell, 8.0., 39, 44 , 3, 21, 38. 11. (25). 156. Luke Fletcher. 8.0.. 32, 42, 1,0, 41, 38, (■23) 154. A.' E. Salisbury, A. 0., 43, 43. 35. 14, 5, 4r ’j n ß.' imthle, No. 1. 8.0.. 7, 29. 20. 49, 0 36 (1°) 141 ’.I. B. Du'thie, R.1.R., 21, 33, 17, 14, 0, 43. (19) I°B J.' B? Duthle, No. 2, 8.0.. 39, 23, 19, 0, QI G (111 1° 1 A Thomson'. A. 0., 40, 30. 2. 0. 27, 15, ( °F. A 4 'Dewhurst, R.1.R.. 13. 35, 9, 30. 18, 8 ’ Mm'R 13 Winers. 8.0., 27. 0, 35, 14, 27, 0, Bros.. R.1.R., 22, 0. 23, 25, 0, 15, X, Larsen, A. 0., 8, 17. 0, 0. 15. 0, ( n ) 40 I. J. Grose, 8.0., 0, 0. 0, 11. 4, 21. (7). 3C W. Fletcher. A. 0., 1. 5. 13, 0, 10, 4. (0), G. A. Edge, R.1.R., 0,7, 0. 11, 0,0, (8), 1 "r" Replacement. Taranaki Competition The eighth week of the Taranaki Egglaying Competition Society’s ninth competition resulted as follows:— White Leghorns.—M. L. Williams, 6—34: 5—36- 5—43. Emery Bros., 4—20; 5—14; 5—Jl7. I), M. Peek. 5 —45; 6—37: 4 —20. E. B. Wainscott. 6—38: 5—41; 7—50. M Stephenson. 5—26; 5—32; 6-38. Cotswold Poultry Farm, 4—37; G—43; 4—24. The Pines Poultry Farm. 6—28: 6—16; 6—-1-Mrs. A. W. Revell. 6—15; 5—28; 5—40. Mrs. R. R. Cannon. 6—39; 4—22 : 5—33. C. L. W. Urquhart, 6—44; 6—33: 5—4 S. Moreland Bros.. 5—41: 0—39 ; .> —39. C. Tj Young, 1—25. Excelsior Poultry Farm, —29 D. Rrnse. 5—21. Miss E. Ladd, 6— 42. F. S. Phillips. sr-31. Brown Leghorns.— Hall Bros., 0—14: &— 23; o—s. G. C. Harding, o—o. W. Busby, 11- Xlfnorcai>.— .1. Carlton. o—o. W. Sellars. 5—34.

Anconns.—D. Kruse, s—lo. Australorps.—J. H. Sutton. 5—41; 4—4; 5—38. IV. A. Larsen, 4—5; o—s: o—o. Mrs, I. M. Playle. 7 —17. Miss M. Playle, o—o. Mrs. R. R. Raynor, s—lB. Orpingtons.—Mrs. F. A. Warren. (>—so; 3—ll • j—S. Mrs. D. M. Waddell, 0—28; 7—IV 5—35 Miss D. Swadling, 5—20. A. 11. Nicholson, M., o—l2. Miss E. Ladd, 5 Rhode Island Reds.—.T, IT. Sutton, s—lB. W. Sellars, O—l. Mrs. W. O, Gould. 5—16. C. C. Cleaver, o—2. Sussex. —Miss D. Playle, o—o. DUCKS.

Fawn and White Indian Runners.—H. H. Melville o—2; 0—0: o—o. Thos. Dowthwalte, 7—16: 6—B; 6—9. L. J. James, 5— 14: o—7; 6-35. Khaki Campbell.—C. A. Stratford, -L — 4. LIGHT BREEDS: THREE-BIRD TEAMS. Total Weekly to

1 2 .3 Til date M. L. Williams. W.L. .. B 5 y 16 113 Emery Bros.. W.L 4 5 y 14 81 O M. Peck. W.L B 4 10 102 E. B. Wainscott .W.L. .. B 7 13 129 M. Stephenson. W.L. ... ;) 6 m 9B Cotswold P. Farm. W.L. 4 6 4 14 104 The Pines P.F (j 6 6 IS 35 Mrs. A. W. Revell. W.L. 6 5 .. IB 113 Mfr. R. R. Cannon, W.L. (1 4 3 15 94 C. L. W. Urquhart, W.L. B B 5 17 119 Moreland Bros., W.L. .. ,j .) 15 119 Hall Bros., B.L 0 y 0 y 45 HEAVY BREEDS. J. H. Sutton, Aus y 4 14 S3 W. A. Larsen, Aus 4 0 0 4 10 Mrs. F. A. Warren. 0. .. t, .3 5 14 69 Mrs. D. M. Waddell. 0. G ”7 . ■ IS 104 DUCKS. II. 11. Melville 0 0 0 0 »/ Thos. Dowthwaite 7 6 <’> 19 33 L. P. Janies . > 0 B 11 5B M-. moulting.