Fleas have appeared in a chicken coop, how to get rid of them at home? - briefly
Use diatomaceous earth or a powdered pyrethrin spray on bedding, perches, and the coop floor, then clean and replace all straw or wood shavings. Follow with regular inspections and a weekly dusting of the same treatment to prevent reinfestation.
Fleas have appeared in a chicken coop, how to get rid of them at home? - in detail
Fleas in a poultry enclosure require immediate, systematic action to protect birds and prevent spreading to the surrounding area. The following protocol outlines a comprehensive, home‑based approach.
First, isolate the flock. Move chickens to a clean, temporary pen for at least 24 hours while treatment proceeds in the original coop. This limits re‑infestation during cleaning.
Next, remove all organic material that can harbor flea eggs or larvae. Strip bedding, nest boxes, and any straw or shavings. Dispose of this material in a sealed bag and discard it away from the coop.
Thoroughly clean every surface:
- Scrub walls, perches, and feeders with hot, soapy water.
- Rinse and dry completely; moisture encourages flea development.
- Apply a diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) to hard surfaces to deter adult fleas.
After cleaning, treat the environment with a non‑chemical, low‑toxicity option:
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) liberally over the floor, perches, and nesting areas. The microscopic sharp edges abrade the exoskeleton of fleas, causing dehydration.
- Allow the powder to remain for 48 hours, then vacuum or sweep it up, repeating the process weekly for two weeks.
Simultaneously address the birds:
- Bathe chickens in a warm water bath containing a small amount of mild dish soap (approximately 1 teaspoon per gallon). Gently massage the feathers to dislodge adult fleas.
- Rinse thoroughly and let the birds dry in a well‑ventilated area.
- Apply a light dusting of food‑grade diatomaceous earth to the plumage, taking care to avoid the eyes and nostrils.
Re‑establish clean bedding using fresh straw or pine shavings. Spread a thin layer of diatomaceous earth beneath the new bedding to create a preventive barrier.
Monitor the coop for at least three weeks, inspecting perches, nests, and the birds daily. If flea activity persists, repeat the cleaning and diatomaceous earth application, and consider adding a natural flea trap: place a shallow dish of soapy water under a bright lamp for a few hours each evening. Fleas attracted to the light will drown.
Maintain strict biosecurity moving forward:
- Change bedding weekly.
- Keep the coop dry and well‑ventilated.
- Perform monthly spot‑treatments with diatomaceous earth.
Following this regimented, home‑based regimen eliminates the current infestation and reduces the likelihood of future outbreaks.