How to treat chickens for fleas and ticks at home?

Understanding Fleas and Ticks in Chickens

Identifying Pests

Recognizing Fleas

Fleas on poultry are small, wingless insects about 1–3 mm long, dark brown to reddish‑black, with laterally flattened bodies that enable them to move through feathers. Adult fleas are most active at night, jumping onto the host when it rests. Immature stages—eggs, larvae, and pupae—occur in the coop litter, feeding on organic debris and adult flea feces.

Typical indicators of a flea problem include:

Intense scratching or pecking by the bird, especially around the vent and under the wings.
Visible insects moving quickly across the skin or feather shafts when the bird is handled.
Scabs or small, round lesions where fleas have fed, often accompanied by a thin line of dark excrement (flea dirt) near the base of feathers.
Restlessness and reduced feed intake, which may signal discomfort from bites.

Inspection steps:

Secure the chicken on a flat surface, gently part the feathers near the vent, tail, and underwing areas.
Expose the skin and use a bright lamp or magnifying glass to scan for moving fleas or their dark fecal specks.
Collect a sample by placing a white cloth under the bird; fleas will often jump onto it when disturbed.
Examine coop litter for flea eggs (white, oval) and larvae (cigar‑shaped, pale).

Prompt identification allows immediate treatment measures, preventing the infestation from spreading to other birds and the surrounding environment.

Recognizing Ticks

Accurate identification of ticks on poultry is essential for any effective home‑based ectoparasite control program. Ticks differ markedly from fleas in size, body shape, and attachment method, and misidentification can lead to inappropriate treatment and prolonged infestation.

Size: Adult ticks range from 3 mm to 15 mm, often visible without magnification; larvae are 0.5 mm to 1 mm.
Body shape: Hard ticks (Ixodidae) have a shield‑like scutum covering the dorsal surface, giving a rectangular silhouette; soft ticks (Argasidae) lack a scutum and appear more rounded.
Color: Freshly attached ticks are pale gray or brown; engorged individuals become dark reddish‑brown or black.
Attachment site: Prefer the ventral neck, under the wings, and along the leg joints; they embed their mouthparts firmly into the skin, leaving a small, circular wound.
Movement: Ticks remain static while feeding for several days; they do not hop or crawl rapidly like fleas.
Life stage clues: Larvae and nymphs have six legs, while adults have eight; the presence of a distinct capitulum (mouthpart) indicates an active feeding stage.

Recognizing these characteristics enables prompt removal, targeted application of acaricides, and monitoring of treatment efficacy in a backyard poultry setting.

Health Risks to Your Flock

Anemia and Weight Loss

Flea and tick infestations drain blood from chickens, often producing anemia and rapid weight loss. The parasites attach to the skin, feed on circulating blood, and can remove enough volume to lower hemoglobin levels, impairing oxygen transport and reducing feed efficiency.

Typical indicators include pale combs and wattles, lethargy, reduced egg production, and a noticeable decline in body condition despite adequate feed. A drop in weight of more than 5 % within a week signals severe blood loss and warrants immediate intervention.

Diagnosis combines visual inspection for live parasites, comb and membrane color assessment, and a simple blood smear to confirm reduced red‑cell count. Weighing birds regularly provides a quantitative measure of progress.

Effective home‑based parasite control should address both the external infestation and the physiological consequences:

Apply a poultry‑safe insecticidal spray or dust, following label directions for concentration and frequency.
Remove and replace bedding weekly; clean coops with a diluted bleach solution to eliminate eggs and larvae.
Provide iron‑rich feed additives or a calibrated iron supplement for 3–5 days, monitoring for toxicity.
Offer high‑quality protein sources, such as boiled eggs or soy‑based mash, to support tissue regeneration.
Ensure constant access to clean water; add electrolytes if dehydration is suspected.

Re‑evaluation after 48 hours should show reduced parasite load, brighter comb coloration, and stabilization of weight. Persistent anemia despite these measures requires veterinary assessment for possible secondary infections or deeper blood‑loss complications.

Disease Transmission

Fleas and ticks on backyard poultry are vectors for several bacterial, viral, and protozoan pathogens that can compromise flock health and reduce productivity. Commonly transmitted agents include:

Rickettsia spp., causing rickettsial infections that lead to fever, lethargy, and anemia.
Salmonella enterica, responsible for septicemia and gastrointestinal disease.
Borrelia spp., the causative agents of avian borreliosis, producing joint inflammation and weight loss.
Babesia spp., protozoan parasites that invade red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic anemia.
West Nile virus and other arboviruses, occasionally transferred by tick bites, causing neurologic signs and mortality.

Direct contact between infested birds and humans or other livestock facilitates cross‑species transmission, especially when ectoparasites detach and crawl onto nearby hosts. Environmental contamination occurs when feces or skin debris from infested chickens contain pathogen DNA, allowing indirect spread through litter, water, and feed.

Effective home‑based control measures reduce vector populations and interrupt transmission cycles:

Apply a dusting powder containing pyrethrin or permethrin to the entire bird, focusing on ventral surfaces, leg folds, and underwing areas. Reapply every 7–10 days during peak infestation periods.
Perform a thorough cleaning of coops, removing all bedding, then disinfect with a diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite) before introducing fresh litter.
Use diatomaceous earth sprinkled on perches and floor surfaces to desiccate ectoparasites; replace weekly to maintain efficacy.
Implement a rotational grazing schedule that moves flocks to clean pastures every 2–3 weeks, limiting re‑infestation from residual tick habitats.
Inspect birds daily; remove engorged ticks with forceps to prevent pathogen inoculation and monitor for signs of disease.

Monitoring blood smears and fecal cultures on a monthly basis detects early pathogen presence, enabling prompt veterinary intervention. Maintaining low ectoparasite loads through these home‑based protocols minimizes disease transmission within the flock and protects surrounding animal populations.

Prevention Strategies

Coop Maintenance

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is a cornerstone of effective flea and tick control for backyard poultry. Maintaining a dry, debris‑free environment interrupts the life cycle of ectoparasites and reduces the chance of reinfestation after treatment.

Remove all bedding, droppings, and feed remnants from the coop each day.
Scrub walls, perches, and nesting boxes with hot water and a mild detergent; rinse thoroughly.
Disinfect surfaces with a poultry‑safe solution (e.g., diluted bleach at 1 % concentration) and allow to dry completely.
Replace bedding with clean, absorbent material that can be changed weekly.
Wash water containers and feeders daily; sanitize weekly with a non‑corrosive cleanser.
Inspect and clean the surrounding yard, eliminating tall grass, leaf litter, and other habitats where parasites thrive.

Consistent execution of these steps lowers ambient humidity, removes eggs and larvae, and creates conditions unfavorable to fleas and ticks, supporting overall flock health.

Diatomaceous Earth Application

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine, abrasive powder composed of fossilized diatom shells. When applied to poultry, its sharp particles damage the exoskeletons of fleas, ticks, and other external parasites, leading to dehydration and death.

To use DE effectively on chickens:

Choose food‑grade DE; pool‑grade varieties contain high silica content and can irritate respiratory tissues.
Dust the birds lightly after each wash or when they are dry. A thin, even coating on feathers, legs, and vent area is sufficient.
Sprinkle a thin layer (approximately 1 mm) on perches, nesting boxes, and coop floor. Replace the layer every 2–3 weeks or after heavy cleaning, because moisture reduces DE’s abrasive properties.
Wear a mask and gloves during application to prevent inhalation and skin irritation.
Observe birds for signs of respiratory distress; reduce exposure if coughing or sneezing occurs.

Safety considerations:

Store DE in a dry container to preserve its desiccating effect.
Keep the powder away from open flames; it is not flammable but can become a fine dust cloud.
Avoid excessive amounts; over‑application may cause feather matting and hinder normal preening.

When integrated with regular coop sanitation—removing droppings, rotating bedding, and maintaining low humidity—DE contributes to a sustainable, chemical‑free strategy for controlling ectoparasites in backyard poultry.

Flock Management

Dust Baths

Dust baths provide chickens with a natural method for removing fleas and ticks. When birds roll in dry, coarse material, the particles attach to the parasites, desiccate them, and cause them to fall from the host’s feathers.

The abrasive action of the substrate damages the exoskeleton of ectoparasites, while the dryness interferes with their respiratory system. Repeated exposure reduces infestation levels without chemicals.

Effective substrate composition

Fine sand (30 %): smooth enough for comfortable movement, retains heat.
Diatomaceous earth, food‑grade (20 %): microscopic silica shards puncture parasite cuticles.
Wood ash or powdered charcoal (15 %): adds absorbent properties, helps control odor.
Crushed dried leaves or straw (35 %): provides texture, encourages natural foraging behavior.

Construction guidelines

Choose a well‑ventilated area away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Build a shallow pit 12–18 inches deep and 3–4 ft wide; line the bottom with a layer of coarse grit to prevent compaction.
Fill the pit with the mixed substrate, stirring to maintain uniform distribution.
Place a sturdy wooden frame or low fence around the bath to keep chickens inside while allowing easy entry and exit.

Usage protocol

Introduce the dust bath when chickens are first settled in the coop; allow them to explore voluntarily.
Observe each bird for 5–10 minutes of active rolling; repeat twice daily during peak parasite activity (early morning and late afternoon).
Remove clumped material weekly and replace with fresh substrate to sustain abrasive quality.
Inspect birds after each session; gently brush away excess dust to avoid respiratory irritation.

Dust baths complement other non‑chemical measures such as regular coop cleaning, nesting box rotation, and targeted spot treatments with neem oil or pyrethrin sprays. Consistent implementation reduces reliance on pharmaceuticals and promotes overall flock health.

Introducing New Birds

Introducing new birds into a flock creates a direct pathway for external parasites to reach resident chickens. Fleas and ticks can hitchhike on feathers, feet, or transport containers, rapidly establishing infestations that compromise health and productivity.

Before any contact, isolate the newcomers for a minimum of fourteen days. During quarantine, perform daily visual inspections of skin, vent, and leg joints for moving insects or attached larvae. Use a fine-toothed comb to dislodge any visible pests and collect specimens for identification.

Treatment protocol for quarantined birds:

Bathe each bird in warm water containing a mild, poultry‑safe insecticidal soap; allow a five‑minute soak, then rinse thoroughly.
Apply a topical acaricide formulated for avian use, following label dosage precisely on the vent area and leg folds.
Administer an oral dewormer that includes ectoparasite activity, as directed by a veterinarian, to address hidden stages.

After release, integrate the birds gradually, maintaining separate feeding and watering stations for the first week. Continue weekly spot checks on the entire flock for at least six weeks. Preventive measures for the established chickens include regular dust baths with diatomaceous earth, routine cleaning of coop bedding, and periodic application of a low‑toxicity spray to perches and nesting boxes. These actions limit the chance that introduced parasites will survive and spread.

Home Treatment Methods

Natural Remedies

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is widely used as a natural adjunct in managing flea and tick infestations in backyard poultry. Its acidity and antimicrobial properties create an environment that discourages parasite development and reduces irritation on the birds’ skin.

The primary action of ACV stems from its low pH, which interferes with the exoskeleton formation of larvae and deters adult insects from attaching to the host. Additionally, the acetic acid component exhibits mild antiseptic effects, helping to prevent secondary skin infections.

Practical applications include:

Adding ACV to drinking water at a 1‑2 % concentration (10‑20 ml per litre). Provide the solution for 24‑48 hours, then revert to plain water for a day before repeating the cycle.
Spraying a diluted mixture (5 % ACV, 95 % water) onto the feathers and skin, focusing on the vent, legs, and underwing areas. Apply once daily for a week.
Bathing chickens in a shallow tub containing 5 % ACV solution for 5‑10 minutes, followed by thorough drying.

Dosage guidelines:

For a flock of 10 birds, mix 200‑400 ml ACV with 10 L of water.
Monitor water intake; if consumption drops, reduce concentration by 0.5 % and increase the feeding period gradually.
Do not exceed a 3 % solution, as higher acidity may cause gastrointestinal upset.

Safety considerations:

Ensure fresh ACV is used; aged vinegar can develop off‑flavors that deter drinking.
Observe birds for signs of diarrhea or reduced feed intake; adjust concentration immediately if symptoms appear.
Avoid mixing ACV with medicated feeds unless advised by a veterinarian, as interactions may reduce efficacy.

Limitations:

ACV does not eradicate established infestations; it reduces reproduction rates and alleviates discomfort.
Effective control requires regular coop cleaning, bedding replacement, and physical removal of visible parasites.
Severe infestations may necessitate conventional acaricides in conjunction with ACV.

Store ACV in a cool, dark place, sealed to prevent contamination. Replace the solution weekly to maintain potency.

Garlic and Herbs

Garlic and selected culinary herbs provide effective, low‑cost options for controlling fleas and ticks on backyard chickens when applied correctly. Both agents possess natural insecticidal properties that disrupt the life cycle of ectoparasites without harming the birds when dosed responsibly.

Garlic preparation: crush fresh cloves, mix with warm water (1 part garlic to 4 parts water), let steep for 10 minutes, then strain. Add 1 tablespoon of the infusion per gallon of drinking water. Offer the medicated water for three consecutive days, then resume normal supply. Repeat weekly during peak parasite activity.
Herb blend: combine equal parts dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Grind to a fine powder, then sprinkle 1 teaspoon per 5 kg of feed. Mix thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution. Administer with each feeding for two weeks, then pause for a week before resuming if infestations recur.

Safety considerations include monitoring water intake to prevent dehydration, limiting garlic concentration to avoid hemolytic effects in susceptible breeds, and avoiding excessive herb amounts that may alter feed palatability. Rotate treatments with a two‑week break to reduce the risk of resistance development. Veterinary references confirm that these botanical interventions, when integrated into a comprehensive sanitation program—regular coop cleaning, bedding replacement, and environmental drying—significantly lower flea and tick burdens without resorting to synthetic chemicals.

Topical Applications

Specialized Sprays

Specialized sprays formulated for poultry provide a fast‑acting solution against flea and tick infestations. These products contain insecticidal agents such as pyrethrins, permethrin, or carbaryl, calibrated to kill ectoparasites while minimizing toxicity to birds when used as directed.

When selecting a spray, verify that the label specifies approval for use on chickens or other poultry. Choose formulations that:

Offer residual activity of at least 7 days to reduce re‑infestation.
Include a non‑oil carrier to prevent feather matting and maintain coop ventilation.
Provide clear dosage instructions based on bird weight or coop surface area.

Application steps:

Remove feed and water containers from the coop to avoid contamination.
Shake the can thoroughly, then spray the interior surfaces—perches, nest boxes, and walls—until a fine mist covers all areas.
Apply a light mist directly to the birds, holding the nozzle at least 12 inches away to prevent skin irritation.
Allow the spray to dry for 15 minutes before returning the flock and restoring equipment.

Repeat treatment every 10–14 days during peak parasite seasons, and combine sprays with regular cleaning, dust baths, and biological controls for sustained protection. Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place; dispose of empty containers according to local hazardous waste regulations.

Dusting Powders

Dusting powders provide a fast‑acting, residue‑free method for controlling fleas and ticks on backyard chickens. The fine, insecticidal particles adhere to the bird’s feathers and skin, killing parasites on contact while allowing the animal to preen without a wet coating.

Effective powders contain active ingredients such as pyrethrins, permethrin, or diatomaceous earth. Pyrethrin‑based products act within minutes, targeting the nervous system of insects. Permethrin offers longer residual activity, suitable for ongoing infestations. Food‑grade diatomaceous earth works mechanically, abrading the exoskeleton of fleas and ticks and dehydrating them.

When applying dusting powder, follow these steps:

Prepare the coop – Remove bedding, clean perches, and ensure good ventilation.
Isolate the birds – Place chickens in a temporary holding area to prevent dust loss.
Apply the powder – Sprinkle a thin, even layer onto the back, ventral surface, and feather bases; avoid the eyes and nostrils.
Allow absorption – Let birds preen for 10–15 minutes; excess powder will settle on the coop floor.
Re‑introduce to the coop – Return birds, then lightly dust the coop surfaces to maintain a protective barrier.

Safety considerations include:

Use only products labeled for poultry; avoid formulations intended for livestock or humans.
Observe the recommended concentration; excessive dust can cause respiratory irritation.
Rotate active ingredients every 4–6 weeks to prevent resistance development.
Store powders in a dry, sealed container to preserve efficacy.

Regular dusting, combined with routine coop cleaning, reduces parasite loads and limits reinfestation. Monitoring bird behavior and feather condition helps determine when re‑application is necessary.

Integrated Pest Management

Combining Methods

Effective control of fleas and ticks on backyard chickens often requires a layered approach that merges chemical, natural, environmental, and mechanical tactics. Each method addresses a different stage of the parasite life cycle, creating a cumulative impact that exceeds the results of any single technique.

A practical combination might include:

Topical insecticide applied to the bird’s vent area once every two weeks, using products labeled for poultry and following the manufacturer’s dosage.
Herbal dip such as a warm solution of diluted apple cider vinegar and oregano oil, administered weekly to disrupt larvae development and provide a soothing effect.
Dust bath with a mixture of diatomaceous earth, wood ash, and dried herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme) placed in a shallow container, encouraging chickens to roll and coat themselves, thereby killing crawling stages.
Coop sanitation involving weekly removal of all litter, thorough cleaning with a mild bleach solution, and replacement with fresh bedding to eliminate eggs and pupae in the environment.
Physical inspection conducted daily, removing visible adult ticks or fleas by hand and disposing of them in a sealed container.

Integrating these actions creates redundancy: chemicals kill active parasites, herbal treatments interfere with reproduction, dust baths mechanically damage insects, sanitation removes dormant stages, and manual removal eliminates any survivors. Rotating the schedule—alternating chemical and herbal applications, refreshing dust bath ingredients, and maintaining strict coop hygiene—prevents resistance development and sustains low parasite loads throughout the flock’s lifecycle.

Monitoring Effectiveness

Effective control of ectoparasites on backyard poultry requires systematic verification that interventions are reducing infestations. Without measurable data, owners cannot determine whether a treatment regimen is sufficient or needs modification.

Key indicators include:

Visible parasite count on a sample of birds (e.g., number of fleas or ticks per bird after a standardized inspection).
Presence of skin lesions, feather loss, or anemia, recorded as binary (present/absent) or graded severity.
Weight gain trends; stable or increasing weight suggests reduced parasitic stress.
Egg production rates; a return to baseline levels indicates improved health.

To collect these metrics, follow a repeatable protocol:

Select three to five representative chickens from each coop.
Conduct a timed visual inspection (e.g., 30 seconds per bird) using a fine-toothed comb; count all moving parasites.
Document skin condition and feather quality with a checklist.
Weigh each bird and record egg count per day for the same cohort.
Repeat the process weekly for the first month, then bi‑weekly for the next two months.

Maintain a simple logbook or spreadsheet with dates, raw counts, and calculated averages. Graphing parasite counts over time reveals trends; a steady decline of 70 % or more within two weeks typically confirms treatment efficacy. If counts plateau or rebound, adjust the regimen—consider higher‑dose applications, alternative natural products, or environmental sanitation measures such as deep litter removal and habitat drying.

Regular review of the compiled data enables evidence‑based decisions, minimizes unnecessary chemical exposure, and supports long‑term flock health.

Post-Treatment Care

Supporting Recovery

Nutritional Supplements

Nutritional supplements strengthen the bird’s immune response, making it harder for ectoparasites to establish a foothold. Adequate levels of vitamins A, D3, and E support skin integrity and feather quality, reducing the likelihood of flea and tick attachment. Minerals such as zinc and selenium contribute to keratin formation and antioxidant defenses, which help the chicken repair minor skin damage caused by bites.

Key supplements for parasite control include:

Probiotic blends – maintain gut flora balance, indirectly enhancing systemic immunity.
Omega‑3 fatty acids – reduce inflammation from bites and improve coat condition.
Herbal extracts (e.g., neem, oregano oil) – possess mild repellent properties when administered at recommended concentrations.
Vitamin‑mineral premixes – ensure daily requirements are met, preventing deficiencies that weaken barrier defenses.

Dosage recommendations:

Provide a complete layer feed fortified with a premix that supplies at least 2,500 IU vitamin A, 1,000 IU vitamin D3, and 30 IU vitamin E per kilogram of feed.
Add 0.5 g of probiotic powder per 10 kg of feed, mixed evenly each feeding.
Include 0.2 ml of neem oil per liter of drinking water for a five‑day cycle, followed by a two‑day rest period.
Supply 0.5 g of ground flaxseed per bird daily to deliver omega‑3 fatty acids.

Regular monitoring of body condition, feather quality, and fecal consistency confirms supplement efficacy. Adjustments should be made based on observed performance, with veterinary consultation for any signs of toxicity. Proper supplementation works alongside sanitation and mechanical removal methods to achieve comprehensive control of fleas and ticks in a home poultry environment.

Stress Reduction

Stress in poultry compromises immune function, making infestations of fleas and ticks harder to control. When birds are calm, topical or environmental treatments penetrate more effectively, and the risk of accidental injury during application drops.

To keep chickens relaxed during a home‑based parasite program, follow these actions:

Provide consistent lighting and temperature; sudden changes trigger cortisol release.
Ensure clean, dry bedding; damp litter encourages discomfort and agitation.
Limit handling to brief, gentle movements; prolonged restraint elevates heart rate.
Offer fresh water and a balanced diet; nutritional deficiencies increase irritability.
Keep the coop layout stable; avoid rearranging perches or feeders during treatment periods.

Before applying any insecticidal spray or powder, allow birds to settle for at least 15 minutes after entry into the coop. Observe behavior; birds that are preening calmly and vocalizing normally indicate low stress levels. If signs of panic appear—rapid wing flapping, loud squawking, or escape attempts—pause the procedure, restore a quiet environment, and retry once the flock has settled.

Post‑treatment, monitor flock activity for 24‑48 hours. Normal feeding and roosting patterns confirm that the stress reduction measures are effective and that the parasite control regimen is not causing secondary distress.

Preventing Reinfestation

Ongoing Inspections

Regular monitoring of a flock is essential for early detection of flea and tick infestations. Inspect each bird at least twice weekly, focusing on the vent area, under the wings, and around the legs where parasites commonly hide.

Separate the bird gently and hold it on a flat surface.
Use a fine-toothed comb to run through the feathers, watching for small moving specks.
Examine the skin for redness, scabbing, or clusters of eggs.
Check the coop floor, perches, and nesting boxes for droppings and debris that may harbor parasites.
Record findings in a simple log: date, bird identification, observed stage of infestation, and any treatment applied.

Consistent documentation reveals patterns, such as seasonal spikes or recurring problem zones, allowing timely adjustments to preventive measures. Maintaining clean bedding, rotating perches, and applying natural repellents between inspections reduces the likelihood of severe outbreaks.

Environmental Control

Effective management of ectoparasites in backyard poultry begins with controlling the environment where the birds live. Cleanliness, habitat modification, and preventive measures reduce flea and tick populations and limit reinfestation.

Regular removal of litter, droppings, and spilled feed eliminates breeding sites. Replace bedding weekly with fresh material such as pine shavings, which dry quickly and deter parasites. After each cleaning, apply a diluted food‑grade diatomaceous earth solution to the coop floor; the abrasive particles damage the exoskeleton of insects and interrupt their life cycle.

Ventilation is essential. Ensure continuous airflow by installing adjustable vents or windows, and keep the coop free of excess moisture. Dry conditions hinder egg development for both fleas and ticks. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity; aim for levels below 60 % relative humidity.

Structural barriers prevent external infestations. Seal cracks, gaps, and openings with hardware cloth or fine mesh to block rodent entry, which often carries ticks. Install a perimeter fence at least 18 inches high and bury the bottom 12 inches underground to stop burrowing pests.

Rotate grazing areas to disrupt parasite habitats. Move the flock to a fresh pasture every 3–4 weeks, allowing previously used ground to dry and natural predators to reduce parasite numbers. During rotation, scatter crushed garlic or rosemary leaves on the soil; both emit compounds that repel fleas and ticks without harming the chickens.

Implement a routine inspection schedule. Examine each bird daily, focusing on the vent area, underwings, and vent region. Prompt removal of visible insects reduces the overall load and prevents secondary infections.

Key environmental actions

Clean coop daily; replace bedding weekly.
Apply food‑grade diatomaceous earth to dry surfaces.
Maintain ventilation; keep humidity < 60 %.
Seal all openings with fine mesh; install a buried fence.
Rotate pastures every 3–4 weeks; use natural repellents on soil.
Conduct daily bird inspections; remove parasites immediately.

Consistent application of these measures creates an inhospitable setting for fleas and ticks, supporting long‑term health of the flock without reliance on chemical treatments.