How can I get rid of chicken fleas in a coop using folk remedies? - briefly
Apply diatomaceous earth to roosts and nest boxes, and dust the coop floor with a blend of dried lavender, rosemary, and neem oil to dehydrate and repel fleas. Refresh the treatment weekly and maintain a dry, well‑ventilated environment to prevent recurrence.
How can I get rid of chicken fleas in a coop using folk remedies? - in detail
Traditional methods can effectively reduce flea infestations in a chicken house when applied systematically. Begin with environmental preparation: remove all bedding, discard it, and clean the coop with hot water and a mild detergent. After the surfaces dry, spread a thin layer of diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) on the floor, perches, and nesting boxes; the abrasive particles damage the exoskeletons of crawling insects, leading to dehydration.
Next, introduce botanical repellents. A proven mixture consists of:
- 1 cup of dried rosemary leaves, crushed.
- ½ cup of dried lavender buds.
- ¼ cup of powdered neem.
- 2 cups of apple cider vinegar.
Combine the herbs and neem, then dissolve the mixture in the vinegar. Dilute with 8 cups of water and spray the solution onto all wooden surfaces, cracks, and the interior walls. The strong scent deters adult fleas and disrupts their breeding cycle.
For direct treatment of birds, prepare a gentle bath:
- 1 liter of warm water.
- 2 tablespoons of finely ground wood ash.
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
Stir until dissolved, then gently pour over each bird, ensuring thorough coverage of feathers and skin. The alkaline environment irritates fleas, causing them to detach.
Maintain a regular schedule:
- Replace diatomaceous earth weekly.
- Reapply the herbal spray every 3–4 days.
- Conduct the ash bath once a week during heavy infestations.
Additional preventive measures include:
- Keeping the coop dry; moisture accelerates flea development.
- Installing a fine‑mesh screen over ventilation openings to block entry.
- Rotating the location of the coop annually, allowing the soil to dry completely before re‑use.
By adhering to this regimen, flea populations decline rapidly, and the poultry environment remains healthy without reliance on synthetic chemicals.