Chicken tick: how to get rid of it using folk remedies? - briefly
Apply diatomaceous earth, garlic‑infused water, and a diluted vinegar spray directly to the birds and coop; repeat treatments weekly and keep the environment dry to prevent re‑infestation.
Chicken tick: how to get rid of it using folk remedies? - in detail
The poultry parasite commonly known as the chicken tick can be controlled with several traditional methods that rely on readily available ingredients. These approaches target the tick’s life stages—eggs, larvae, and adults—by creating hostile environments, disrupting feeding, or killing the organisms directly.
A typical preparation involves a strong vinegar solution (1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water). Soaking the coop’s perches, nesting boxes, and any wooden surfaces for 15 minutes, then allowing them to air‑dry, reduces tick attachment sites. The acetic acid interferes with the tick’s cuticle, leading to dehydration.
Another folk remedy uses diatomaceous earth (food‑grade). Sprinkling a thin layer (approximately 1 mm) over the floor, dust‑bathing areas, and around feed stations creates a mechanical barrier. The microscopic silica particles abrade the tick’s exoskeleton, causing loss of moisture and death. Reapply after each cleaning or after heavy rain.
A third option combines herbal extracts. Steeping equal parts dried rosemary and thyme in hot water for 30 minutes yields an oil‑rich infusion. After cooling, the liquid can be sprayed onto the birds’ feathers (avoid eyes) and the coop’s interior. The essential oils possess acaricidal properties that repel and incapacitate the parasites.
For egg‑stage control, a solution of 2 % hydrogen peroxide mixed with water can be applied to nesting material. The oxidative action destroys tick eggs without harming embryos when used sparingly.
A concise protocol for regular maintenance:
- Clean the coop thoroughly; remove all litter and replace with fresh bedding.
- Apply vinegar soak to all wooden surfaces; let dry.
- Distribute diatomaceous earth uniformly; refresh weekly.
- Spray rosemary‑thyme infusion on birds and coop walls; repeat every three days.
- Treat nesting material with diluted hydrogen peroxide once a month.
Implementing these steps consistently disrupts the tick’s life cycle, lowers infestation levels, and supports the health of the flock without resorting to synthetic chemicals.