How can lice be eliminated from chickens? - briefly
Apply a licensed poultry insecticide—such as a pyrethrin spray or dust—according to label instructions, ensuring full coverage of feathers and skin. Follow treatment with rigorous coop sanitation, debris removal, and regular flock inspections to prevent recurrence.
How can lice be eliminated from chickens? - in detail
Lice infestations in poultry are caused primarily by the species Menacanthus stramineus and Lipeurus caponis. These ectoparasites feed on blood and skin, leading to feather loss, reduced egg production, and secondary infections.
Effective control begins with environmental management. Remove accumulated litter, clean feeders and waterers daily, and ensure adequate ventilation to reduce humidity. Rotate or replace bedding material weekly to break the life cycle.
Chemical interventions are available when infestation levels exceed the threshold for sanitation alone. Recommended products include permethrin‑based powders and pyrethrin sprays. Apply the powder to the vent area and under the wings, following the manufacturer’s dosage (typically 0.5 g per bird). Sprays should be administered in a well‑ventilated enclosure, covering the entire body surface without oversaturation. Observe a withdrawal period of at least 48 hours before processing for market.
Non‑chemical options provide alternatives for organic operations:
- Diatomaceous earth, food‑grade, applied at 1 % of total bedding weight.
- Neem oil diluted 1 : 10 with water, sprayed on the bird’s plumage.
- Herbal dusts containing eucalyptus or lavender essential oils, used at 0.2 % concentration.
Mechanical removal supports chemical and natural methods. Encourage dust‑bathing by providing coarse sand or ash. Manually comb the birds with a fine‑toothed poultry comb, focusing on the vent, underwing, and tail regions, to dislodge adult lice and nymphs.
Post‑treatment monitoring is essential. Inspect a random sample of 10 % of the flock daily for two weeks. Record the number of live parasites observed. Repeat the chosen intervention if counts exceed 5 % of the initial infestation level. Maintain a treatment log to track product efficacy and resistance development.