If you’ve ever noticed your pigeon scratching nonstop, losing feathers, or acting restless, it might be more than just a bad molt. You could be dealing with a case of lice in pigeons; tiny yet troublesome parasites that can take a toll on your bird’s health and your peace of mind.
This guide breaks down how to identify, treat, and prevent lice in pigeons, including vet-approved options, home remedies, and prevention strategies. Let’s make sure your birds stay comfortable, healthy, and parasite-free.
Lice in Pigeons Treatment: What Works and What Doesn’t
When it comes to lice in pigeons treatment, there are three reliable options that veterinarians and experienced keepers recommend:
1. Ivermectin (Oral or Spot-On)
Ivermectin is one of the most effective medications for both pigeon lice and pigeon mites. It circulates in the blood, killing lice when they feed.
- Oral drops: Medimite Oral Drops – one drop per pigeon, repeated after 10–14 days
- Spot-on: Apply a drop behind the neck or under each wing
Bonus: Ivermectin also treats internal parasites like roundworms.
2. Permethrin Spray
Permethrin is a topical insecticide that kills lice instantly.
- Spray under wings, around the neck, and near the tail base
- Massage into feathers and skin gently
- Repeat every 10–14 days to kill newly hatched lice
Keep in mind: Permethrin is toxic to cats and aquatic pets.
3. Pyrethrin Spray – A Safer Alternative
Pyrethrin is a natural pesticide that works similarly to permethrin but is safer around other pets.
Try: Scalex Mite & Lice Spray
“I used Scalex on my pigeons after spotting lice. Within days, the scratching stopped and their feathers were smooth again.”
How to Get Rid of Lice in Pigeons Step-by-Step
If you’re wondering how to get rid of lice in pigeons, here’s a simple guide to follow:
Step 1: Inspect Your Pigeon
Look for:
- Tiny brown lice crawling on feathers
- “Nits” (lice eggs) near the base of the tail
- Feathers with holes or ragged edges
- Unusual scratching or restlessness
Step 2: Apply Treatment
Choose either:
- Medimite oral drops (1 drop per bird)
- Spot-on ivermectin behind the neck
- Permethrin or pyrethrin spray on wings, tail, and neck
🛑 Never use dog or cat flea products on pigeons, they can be toxic to birds.
Step 3: Disinfect the Loft
Use Harkamitex or another pigeon-safe insecticidal spray:
- Remove perches, bedding, and food containers
- Spray all surfaces, including cracks and corners
- Let the loft dry fully before reintroducing birds
Step 4: Repeat the Treatment
Because lice eggs hatch every 7–14 days:
- Repeat your chosen treatment after 10–14 days
- For stubborn cases, repeat a third time after another 10 days
Pigeon Lice in House: What Should You Do?
Worried about pigeon lice in the house? Here’s what you should know:
- Lice rarely leave their host unless overcrowded or distressed
- If you’ve brought an infested pigeon indoors, clean the area immediately
- Wash and sanitize all surfaces, especially soft materials like bedding
- Use a pet-safe insecticide if needed
Pigeon Lice on Humans: Is It Dangerous?
Good news: pigeon lice on humans is not a long-term risk.
- They can crawl on you, but cannot feed or reproduce
- You may feel some itching or mild irritation
- Wash hands, change clothes, and avoid handling infested birds bare-handed
Best Pigeon Lice Spray Options
Looking for the best pigeon lice spray? These are trusted by avian vets and breeders:
| Product | Type | Where to Buy |
| Vetafarm Avian Insect Liquidator | Permethrin | Vetafarm AU |
| Scalex Mite & Lice Spray | Pyrethrin | BirdTricks |
| Harkamitex Loft Spray | Loft disinfection | Harka UK |
Pigeon Lice Medicine: What to Keep in Your Kit
Aside from sprays, consider these essential pigeon lice medicine items:
- Ivermectin Oral Drops – Safe, simple, effective
- Spot-on ivermectin – Apply behind the neck
- Bird-safe disinfectant – For the loft and cages
- Supportive supplements – Boost immunity during recovery
Tip: Keep a treatment calendar and label birds that received medication to avoid overdosing.
Home Remedies for Pigeon Lice: Do They Work?
Looking into home remedies for pigeon lice? While they can provide mild relief, they are not as reliable as vet-approved treatments.
Common DIY methods include:
- Diatomaceous Earth: Natural powder that dehydrates lice
- Apple Cider Vinegar Spray: 1:1 vinegar to water ratio (avoid eyes)
- Neem Oil Spray: Natural insecticide, but must be diluted properly
Use caution: Natural doesn’t always mean safe for birds. Always consult your avian vet before using home remedies.
Preventing Future Infestations of Pigeon Lice and Mites
Lice in pigeons often return if prevention is ignored. Follow these tips:
- Clean the loft weekly, disinfect monthly
- Quarantine new pigeons for at least 2 weeks
- Use preventative ivermectin or natural sprays monthly
- Avoid overcrowding; keep pigeons stress-free and healthy
- Limit outdoor contact with wild birds
Final Thoughts: Act Fast, Treat Right, and Prevent Reinfestation
Lice may be small, but they can greatly affect your pigeon’s health, mood, and flight performance. Thankfully, with the right pigeon lice medicine, a safe spray, and a bit of patience, you can clear lice in just a few weeks.
Whether you’re buying Medimite oral drops or using Vetafarm sprays, make sure to treat every bird, clean the loft, and repeat the cycle. Prevention is just as crucial as treatment.
After treating my entire loft with ivermectin and spraying weekly, I haven’t seen a single louse in over six months. My birds are happier and flying stronger than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lice in Pigeons
Q1: How do you treat lice in pigeons?
A: Lice in pigeons are best treated using Ivermectin drops, Permethrin or Pyrethrin sprays, and thorough loft disinfection.
Q2: Can humans get lice from pigeons?
A: Pigeon lice cannot survive or reproduce on humans, though they may cause brief itching if they crawl onto skin.
Q3: How to tell if a pigeon has lice?
A: Check for visible lice, nits near feather shafts, feather holes, and excessive scratching or restlessness.
Q4: What is the spray for lice on pigeons?
A: Vet-approved sprays like Vetafarm Avian Insect Liquidator (Permethrin) or Scalex (Pyrethrin) are highly effective.
Q5: What kills bird lice naturally?
A: Natural remedies like Diatomaceous Earth, diluted apple cider vinegar, and neem oil can help control lice, but vet-approved treatments are more reliable.