Insects In Duck Feathers
 

Out of curiosity...

Occasionally when cleaning birds I end up finding what looks like a silverfish crawling around in the bird's feathers. They're not very big (~1/8-1/4")

Not sure if anyone would know what exactly I am seeing, or if they've had similar experiences?

Maybe I just shoot the skankiest ducks at the marsh...

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

feather lice

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

As stated, lice. That's why i.never put ducks on a strap and over my shoulder to carry them out. I Figure the little buggers would jump across on to me.

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

They won't get ya, they are very specific to thier host. Seems to be more on early season birds in my experience.

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

uh huh, I will wait to see you do it first :EatingPopcorn:https://www.iawaterfowlers.com/image...icon_smile.gif

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

Definitely seems to be later in the year the less you see them. Also seems to me as long as the ducks are warm they will stay with them but if cleaning cold birds they like to crawl on me. I had one crawling through my hair one evening putting stuff away and eventually caught the thing. Never seen one on my dog.
My friends say with my duck calling and duck hunting knowledge I am part duck so maybe that's why they like me? LOL

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

avian lice, ducks are a host for them

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

I had this happen to me once. that's why I said no duck straps and carrying them close enough to where they could jump onto me.

Back when we picked a bunch of ducks... they’ll get on ya, crawl around for awhile but it’s pretty obvious they really don’t want to be there. Peeled a lot of feathers in my years and never had any of ‘em take up permanent residence

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

Welcome home Otter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Man if we can get some of the others back we could have some entertainment again!!!!!!!! and learn a few more things!
Merry Christmas old friend!
Dean

Re: Insects In Duck Feathers
 

I noticed early on in the season that a couple ducks we shot had them.