Knemidokoptic Mange (Scaly Leg and Beak Disease) in Birds

What is knemidokoptic mange and what causes it?

Knemidokoptic mange, also called “cere mites” or “scaly leg and beak mite,” is a relatively common disorder of the beak and/or feet in several species of small pet birds. Knemidokoptic mange is caused by a microscopic mite called Knemidokoptes pilae (also spelled Cnemidocoptes).

What bird species are usually infected?

The commonly infected bird species include parakeets (also called budgerigars or budgies), cockatiels, lovebirds, and canaries. It is more common to see this disease in relatively young birds, but adults may also be affected.

How can I tell if my bird is infected?

Birds with knemidokoptic mange display certain types of lesions. Large amounts of honeycomb-looking scales and crusts can be seen on the bird’s beak, cere (the area on the face for the nasal openings), eyes, and/or legs. 

Severely affected birds generally have long, malformed, crusty upper beaks and thick, crusty toes. The infestation can also involve the skin around the eyes, vent (where the bird defecates), and uropygial gland (also called the oil or preen gland).

In canaries, the skin condition is a bit different. The mites cause crusted projections from the legs and toes, giving the condition in canaries its common name of “tassel-foot.” Your veterinarian can usually confirm the diagnosis with a physical examination and by performing a skin scraping to look for the mites with a microscope, just as a dog or cat veterinarian would look for mange mites.

How did my bird become infected?

Knemidokoptic mange is usually transmitted by close contact between infected birds. However, there may be a genetic predisposition to the condition, as not all birds exposed to an infected bird will develop the condition.

How is knemidokoptic mange treated?

Veterinarians typically use an antiparasitic drug to kill the microscopic mites. You should also disinfect your bird’s cage, perches, bowls, and toys with soap and water or a common household cleaner to prevent re-infection. Mite sprays sold at pet stores are usually not effective at treating the condition. Mite protector devices do not work and contain a chemical known to cause cancer in humans. These mite protectors have also been implicated in the deaths of some birds. Follow your veterinarian’s advice to effectively treat knemidokoptic mange.