How can I quickly eliminate lice from chickens?

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How can I quickly eliminate lice from chickens? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved pyrethrin spray directly to the birds and their nesting area, then repeat after 7–10 days to interrupt the life cycle. Follow with a thorough cleaning of the coop and dust the litter with diatomaceous earth to prevent reinfestation.

How can I quickly eliminate lice from chickens? - in detail
Lice infestations on poultry cause irritation, feather damage, and reduced egg production. Prompt action prevents the problem from spreading to the entire flock.

Identify the infestation – Examine birds daily, focusing on the vent area, underwings, and neck. Look for tiny, grayish insects moving quickly, as well as bite marks or feather loss.

Isolate affected birds – Move infested chickens to a separate pen for at least 48 hours to limit contact with healthy individuals.

Apply a fast‑acting treatment – Options include:

Topical insecticides such as pyrethrin‑based sprays or dusts. Follow the label for dosage, apply to the bird’s body, and repeat after 7 days to break the life cycle.
Avermectin products (e.g., ivermectin) administered orally or via drinking water. Dose according to weight; a single dose often eliminates all life stages within 24–48 hours.
Natural remedies – Diluted diatomaceous earth applied to the coop and lightly dusted on feathers can dehydrate lice. Use food‑grade product and reapply after each wash.

Treat the environment – Remove all bedding, clean perches, and disinfect nesting boxes. Apply the same insecticide dust to coop walls, roosts, and litter. Replace bedding with fresh material after treatment.

Prevent re‑infestation – Implement routine biosecurity measures:

Conduct weekly inspections.
Keep coop dry and well‑ventilated.
Rotate pasture or provide dust‑bathing areas with sand or ash.
Limit contact with wild birds and rodents that may carry parasites.

Monitor post‑treatment – Observe the flock for another two weeks. If lice reappear, repeat the treatment cycle and reassess environmental hygiene.

By combining immediate chemical control, thorough coop sanitation, and ongoing preventive practices, lice can be eradicated from a chicken flock within a few days and remain absent with proper management.