Bird Louse

Natural Habitat

Typically found on the skin and feathers of birds, especially poultry like chickens.

Diet & Feeding

Bird lice are chewing lice; they feed on feathers, skin flakes, and occasionally blood if the skin is broken.

Behavior Patterns

They are permanent ectoparasites, meaning they spend their entire life cycle on the host bird. They move quickly between feathers to avoid light and preening.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Large infestations cause irritation, restlessness, feather damage, and decreased egg production in poultry. Generally not a health risk to humans as they are host-specific. Benefits: None to the host; they are considered pests in agricultural and wildlife settings.

Identified on: 2/13/2026