Leg-lice in Sheep

New Zealand Journal of Agriculture, Volume 60, Issue 1, 15 January 1940, Page 51

Leg-lice in Sheep

Answers to Correspondents

NOVIS (TE KUITI):— Would you kindly give us (through your “Journal”) some information on what is termed “leg-lice” in sheep? LIVESTOCK. DIVISION:— A species of louse on sheep which is not frequently seen, and on account of a this is often not recognised by farmers, is one affecting the hairy portion of the leg and known under the name of Haematopinus pedalis. The parasite infests both the fore and hind limbs, but more frequently is seen on the hind legs. It is a blood-

sucker, and lays a large number of eggs, which remain attached to the hair, giving the affected part a distinct brown appearance. The parasite first made its appearance, so far as is known, in the Banks Peninsula district. Since then it has appeared in

■rr a b— aw—-UM—«nn«— Uli——an—— »mi— mm«—»hn-—ihi— —t" l —« various parts of the North Island, and also in the. Nelson district. The hind legs and even the scrotum of the ram may be covered with a dense mass of lice and eggs. The leg-louse can be readily detected at shearing or crutching time. Ordinary dipping methods are effectual in dealing with the vermin, and as clean sheep may become infested by contact with affected animals, immediate precautions should be taken to safeguard the flock directly its presence has been detected.