A comparison of two methods for collecting feather lice from dead birds

Two procedures for the collection of feather lice from birds are described – a ‘dry’ method and a ‘wet’ method. The dry method consists of placing the bird in a plastic bag with chloroform for 30 minutes after which the plumage is brushed and all dislodged lice collected. The wet method consists of thoroughly washing the dead bird in soapy water and straining the water to collect the lice. Eleven Little Auk Alle alle corpses were deloused using both methods. Three species of feather louse were recorded using both methods but the wet method consistently resulted in the recording of more lice than the dry method alone. The wet method is especially suitable for collecting lice from dead birds but is impractical for use on live birds.