Scaly Face is most often seen in Parakeets (Budgerigars) but can be found in finches as well. There are three types of mite that cause Scaly Face. Each one targets a different type of bird species.

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To continue with the contiguity of this article I am going to talk mainly about finches but, this article can relate to most all bird species.

Scaly Face occurs when the mite burrows into the finch’s skin and lays its eggs. As the eggs hatch and the mites grow they cause the Scaly Face look. The results in such an infestation can be any or all of the following:

• Scaly/crusty lesions
• White film-like coating of the skin
• Localized swelling of tissues
• Pitting of the tissues.

The visual signs of a scaly face usually start around the nares or the corner of the beak on either side. The crusty or filmy lesions then move to the eyes and can cover the eyelids. The infestation can also occur on the legs. Without treatment your finch will eventually die.

Ridding your finch (or bird) of the mites is actually very easy. Treat your finch with Iverlux.

On skin: Apply in a single application 1 to 2 drops depending on the size of the bird (1 drop per 30g body weight), to the bare skin between the shoulders. For best results ensure re-treatment is carried out 3 to 4 times per year. Most pet finches weigh only 10-16 grams. This means you will only be using 1/3 of a drop of the Iverlux for their treatment. Treat once per week for 6 connective weeks.

In Water: Add 1/2 tsp. of IVERLUX to 1 quart of clean drinking water for small bird flocks( finches, canaries) or add 1 tsp. to 1 quart of clean drinking water for large bird flocks (greys,mynahs) for two connective days. Repeat for 3 weeks in a row. Treat once per week for 6 connective weeks.

A little history for those who may be interested: Scaly Face has been a problem ever since people started keeping birds as pets. For a very long time everyone thought Scaly Face was caused by a mold or fungus infection. Many topical ointments and solutions were tried but little worked. It wasn’t until 1951 that the mite was discovered to be the actual cause. From then on avian fanciers and veterinarians alike have been working to find the best way to kill the mites. Iverlux has worked the best. Iverlux is an easy to apply topical treatment or it can be used in the drinking water.

Article © Myra Markley 2003

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