How can I get rid of chicken fleas? - briefly
Apply food‑grade diatomaceous earth to the coop, replace bedding, and treat the chickens with a poultry‑safe insecticide spray, repeating the process every few days until the fleas are eliminated.
How can I get rid of chicken fleas? - in detail
Dealing with flea infestations in a backyard flock requires a systematic approach that targets both the birds and their environment.
First, isolate the affected chickens. Move them to a clean, temporary pen that can be disinfected easily. Provide fresh water and feed, but keep the space free of bedding until the cleaning process is complete.
Next, treat the birds directly. Apply a poultry‑safe insecticide spray or powder according to the manufacturer’s instructions, focusing on the vent region, under the wings, and around the tail. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to interrupt the flea life cycle.
Then, cleanse the coop thoroughly:
- Remove all bedding, perches, and nesting material.
- Scrub walls, floors, and roosts with a hot‑water solution containing a mild detergent.
- Rinse and allow surfaces to dry completely.
- Replace bedding with fresh, dust‑free material such as pine shavings.
Address the surrounding area to prevent re‑infestation:
- Clear vegetation, debris, and manure piles within a 10‑foot radius of the coop.
- Apply a diatomaceous earth dusting to the ground, focusing on cracks, crevices, and under outdoor perches.
- Use a residual insecticide granule or spray labeled for outdoor use, following label rates and safety precautions.
Implement regular preventive measures:
- Conduct weekly inspections of the flock and coop for signs of fleas.
- Rotate bedding weekly and clean the coop at least once a month.
- Maintain low humidity and good ventilation to create an unfavorable environment for flea development.
Finally, monitor the flock for at least six weeks after treatment. If flea activity persists, repeat the insecticide application and consider consulting a veterinarian experienced in poultry health for alternative control options.