Hi. So tonight I was cleaning my BTS cages as per normal, and when I was holding one of my BTS’ Beau, I noticed 1 Black almost microscopic bug on him. I brushed it off and didn’t see another one on him or his scales. He also has a weird black patch on one of his scales (just next to his leg) - I have attached pictures. He also hasn’t eaten any of his food for 4 - 5 days. He shed last week.
Does he have mites? If he does, what’s the best way to treat them?
Or does he have scale rot?
Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks!
URGENT: does my BTS have mites?
Forum rules
In this forum all are welcome to ask blue tongue skink-related questions, share information, ideas, tips, experiences, and pictures with fellow BTS enthusiasts.
If you are wondering if your BTS is acting normally or might be sick, this is where you can get help with that.
This is also where you can have some FUN while sharing the enjoyment you get from your blueys!
In this forum all are welcome to ask blue tongue skink-related questions, share information, ideas, tips, experiences, and pictures with fellow BTS enthusiasts.
If you are wondering if your BTS is acting normally or might be sick, this is where you can get help with that.
This is also where you can have some FUN while sharing the enjoyment you get from your blueys!
- Angel_BTS
- Bluey Beginner
- Posts: 97
- Joined: Sat Feb 24, 2018 4:29 pm
- Country: Australia
URGENT: does my BTS have mites?
You do not have the required permissions to view the files attached to this post.
- kayla990
- Bluey Follower
- Posts: 369
- Joined: Thu Jan 07, 2016 11:19 pm
- Country:
- Location: Netherlands
Re: URGENT: does my BTS have mites?
Hmm can't really see the typical markers of mites; such as raised scales or the white flecks on the skin (though know it can be difficult to get a good picture without using a macro lense). The black insect could have been a springtail - as they can come in white tones or fully black (nothing to worry about if it was a springtail, they are beneficial insects that help clean up tanks). Keep a watch regardless, not too sure what could cause a black patch though...
- Hons. Degree Animal Management -4 years volunteer in a Zoo -10 years volunteer in animal shelters -Enclosure enthusiast
- Angel_BTS
- Bluey Beginner
- Posts: 97
- Joined: Sat Feb 24, 2018 4:29 pm
- Country: Australia
Re: URGENT: does my BTS have mites?
kayla990 wrote:Hmm can't really see the typical markers of mites; such as raised scales or the white flecks on the skin (though know it can be difficult to get a good picture without using a macro lense). The black insect could have been a springtail - as they can come in white tones or fully black (nothing to worry about if it was a springtail, they are beneficial insects that help clean up tanks). Keep a watch regardless, not too sure what could cause a black patch though...
Thank you for your reply! I have booked a vet appointment for Beau, just in case there is something going on with his discoloured scale. As for the mites, I agree with you, he doesn’t have raised scales or white flecks on his skin - I think I just got a bit paranoid! I’m happy that it’s just a springtail - Phew nothing to worry about!
- splashy07
- ADMIN
- Posts: 3123
- Joined: Wed Aug 27, 2014 11:24 am
- Country: USA
- Location: Farmingdale,LI,NY
Re: URGENT: does my BTS have mites?
Try the white paper towel test. Dampen a paper towel and give your skink a rub down. If there are mites present, you will probably see the little black dots crawling around on the towel. I had a friend years ago that used this method every time he considered a purchase at a pet store!
- Angel_BTS
- Bluey Beginner
- Posts: 97
- Joined: Sat Feb 24, 2018 4:29 pm
- Country: Australia
Re: URGENT: does my BTS have mites?
splashy07 wrote:Try the white paper towel test. Dampen a paper towel and give your skink a rub down. If there are mites present, you will probably see the little black dots crawling around on the towel. I had a friend years ago that used this method every time he considered a purchase at a pet store!
Thanks for the advice! I’ll give that a go tonight, and see wether there are any mites. I’ll post an update soon
Return to “General Discussion and FAQ”
Who is online
Users browsing this forum: Google [Bot] and 43 guests