Chickens have fleas: what to do at home? - briefly
Isolate the affected birds, thoroughly clean and disinfect the coop, and replace all bedding. Apply a poultry‑safe flea spray or dust (e.g., diatomaceous earth), repeat the treatment after seven days, and monitor for any recurrence.
Chickens have fleas: what to do at home? - in detail
Flea infestations in backyard poultry require immediate, systematic action. Begin with a thorough examination of the flock. Inspect each bird’s vent area, under wings, and around the feet for tiny, dark moving specks or signs of irritation. Separate any bird that shows heavy infestation to prevent spread.
Immediate control measures
- Apply a poultry‑safe insecticidal spray or powder directly to the affected plumage, following the manufacturer’s dosage instructions.
- Use a fine‑toothed comb to remove visible fleas and eggs, then dispose of the comb in hot water.
- Bathe the bird in lukewarm water with a mild, non‑medicated soap to wash away lingering parasites.
Environmental sanitation
- Remove all bedding, litter, and manure from the coop; replace with fresh, dry material such as straw or pine shavings.
- Clean all surfaces with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or an approved poultry disinfectant.
- Allow the coop to dry completely before re‑adding bedding, as fleas cannot survive in low‑humidity conditions.
Preventive strategies
- Rotate bedding weekly and keep the coop dry; moisture fosters flea development.
- Install diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) in dust‑bathing areas; the abrasive particles damage flea exoskeletons.
- Maintain regular perimeter cleaning around the coop, eliminating tall grass and debris where wild rodents or birds might harbor fleas.
- Schedule quarterly treatments with a veterinarian‑approved ectoparasitic product to interrupt the flea life cycle.
Monitoring
- Conduct visual checks twice a week for the first month after treatment, then weekly for the next two months.
- Record any recurrence of signs such as feather loss, excessive preening, or visible insects, and adjust the control plan promptly.
By combining direct treatment, rigorous coop sanitation, and ongoing preventive practices, the flea population can be eliminated and the risk of re‑infestation minimized.