Therapeutic management of Knemidocoptes pilae infestation in budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulates): Case Reports

Abstract

This report describes cases of Knemidocoptes pilae infestation in budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus). The mites produced scaly lesions primarily on the face and legs and were diagnosed through clinical signs and microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Severity of lesions and the general physical condition were strongly correlated to the interval between disease onset and the time of clinical intervention. Management included beak trimming (where appropriate), topical ivermectin, and a supplemental botanical acaricidal treatment. All affected birds demonstrated progressive clinical resolution over the course of therapy, providing support for an integrated protocol that combines conventional and natural acaricidal approaches for avian knemidocoptiasis.