how do you protect your bird from ticks?

[chrisg]

Hi, I imagine that ticks would be a problem, so how do you prevent them?

[MarkT]

In 35 years of falconry, I've never ever considered ticks as possible problem with birds.

[runnergirl]

Tick problems in raptors may not be common, but they can be very serious. There are instances of critically ill captive birds with hemorrhagic swelling of the head associated with the Ixodes frontalis tick. It is unknown if it is a hypersensitivity reaction (similar to allergic) from the bird, or a tick toxin (other members of the genus are known to cause tick paralysis). Otherwise ticks are generally thought of as non problematic. Overall, tick control in the area surrounding the mews is the only precaution I would take. (if you have mammals around, such as dogs, who find ticks I would also treat them for ticks - more for your safety and the dog's than the bird's, though).