Mites, fly larvae
Ectoparasites can not only cause trouble for pet reptiles, but they can also transmit disease, be very debilitating, and in extreme cases, cause death. Preventing and treating the introduction and spread of ectoparasites throughout reptile care is a very important aspect of keeping your reptile healthy and happy.
Symptoms and types
Mite infestations can cause reptiles’ skin to become rough and often prevent the normal shedding process. Mite-infested animals may frequently bathe in their water bowl to ward off the pests, or rub themselves against the surface of the terrarium to relieve discomfort.
Mites are relatively large parasites that are easily visible to the naked eye and use their mouthparts to attach to the skin of reptiles.
Turtles kept in fly-infested outdoor areas may develop one or more skin lumps which sea fly larvae live in. Maggot infestations are also possible and can be very debilitating for reptiles, causing lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite and even death if left untreated.
Cause
Ectoparasites are primarily a problem with wild-caught reptiles or in reptile collections where newly added reptiles are not properly inspected, treated, or quarantined. Sea flies lay their eggs in tiny wounds they make in the reptile’s skin. Other flies then take advantage of the existing wounds to lay their eggs, causing maggot infestations.
diagnosis
Mites are about 1 millimeter long and can be hard to see when there are only a few. They tend to congregate in skin creases and around the eyes. If you place the surface of your reptile’s skin on white paper and rub it gently, tiny brown or black parasites will come off and become visible as they fall onto the paper.
If the skin swelling is caused by maggot flies, there will be small holes through which the larvae can breathe. Maggots, on the other hand, are light grey or white worm-like larvae that can be found in and around wounds on the surface of the body.
process
Ticks can be removed by grasping the part that is attached and gently pulling the mouth parts out of the reptile’s skin.
To get rid of mites, use insecticides and medications to kill parasites on your reptile’s body and in the terrarium. Use caution when using these chemicals around your reptile as they can lead to serious illness or death if your pet overdoses on them, drinks contaminated water, or there is insufficient ventilation. Dispose of all substrates and cage furniture that could provide harborage for mites. Use newspapers as floor coverings during the treatment period, and then refurbish the cage with mite-free substrate, branches, stones, hideouts, etc.
Maggot larvae can be removed from cavities within the skin by gently spreading the breathing hole and pulling them out with tweezers. Maggots should be removed or washed away from the reptile’s injured skin. If the reptile has an open wound, it should be treated with a topical antiseptic. Antibiotics in the form of an ointment, injection, or oral form are also frequently prescribed.
Life and Management
Reptiles infected with ectoparasites can be expected to make a full recovery if they are treated in a timely manner and are otherwise in good condition. The prognosis is less good if the parasites have sucked blood in large quantities, causing severe anemia and weakness, or transmitting other diseases.
Prevention
The best way to prevent external parasite infections is to thoroughly examine your new pet before bringing it into your home. It is also recommended to quarantine it for three months before it comes into contact with other reptiles in your collection. Additionally, keeping your turtle indoors or using screens around any outdoor enclosures will keep flies away.
