Identifying Lice

• Lice are generally elongated in shape and can be seen under magnification on the underside of a cockatiel's wing or tail. Lice are usually found on or near the feather shaft.
  
  

Threat

• Lice are usually not very harmful to birds. Bird lice eat small portions of the feather, only leading to a serious problem if left unchecked.
  
  

Treatment

• Cockatiels that are suspected of having lice should be taken to an avian veterinarian for treatment. The veterinarian will usually prescribe a medicated spray or powder to be applied every 10 days for 40 or 50 days.
  
  

Spread

• Bird lice are species specific. Lice that have been found on cockatiels will not spread to other birds, pets or humans, but it is still a good idea to have all birds in the home checked by an avian veterinarian.
  
  

Additional Precautions

• Even though bird lice complete their life cycle on the feathers of their host bird, it is still a good idea to disinfect a cockatiel's cage after they have been diagnosed with lice.