How can lice be gotten rid of from broilers? - briefly
Apply a licensed topical insecticide (e.g., pyrethrin, organophosphate) according to label rates, ensuring complete coverage of feathers and skin, then clean litter and maintain strict biosecurity to prevent re‑infestation.
How can lice be gotten rid of from broilers? - in detail
Lice infestations in broiler production cause reduced weight gain, skin lesions, and increased mortality. Effective eradication requires an integrated approach that combines chemical, biological, and management measures.
Chemical control remains the fastest method. Recommended products include:
- Permethrin‑based sprays applied at 0.5 % concentration, covering all body surfaces. Re‑treatment after 7 days addresses newly hatched nymphs.
- Organophosphate drenches such as malathion, administered at 1 ml per bird, with a 14‑day withdrawal period before processing.
- Macrocyclic lactone injectables (e.g., ivermectin) at 0.2 mg/kg body weight, providing systemic activity for up to 10 days.
When using insecticides, follow label instructions precisely, rotate active ingredients to prevent resistance, and observe withdrawal times to ensure food safety.
Biological options complement chemicals:
- Entomopathogenic fungi (Metarhizium anisopliae) applied as a dusting powder; spores infect lice within 48 hours.
- Parasitic wasps (Aphytis spp.) that lay eggs inside adult lice, reducing reproductive capacity.
Environmental management reduces re‑infestation risk:
- Clean housing between batches: remove litter, disinfect surfaces with a 2 % sodium hypochlorite solution, and allow a minimum 48‑hour downtime.
- Maintain low humidity (≤ 60 % relative humidity) and temperature (30–33 °C) to create unfavorable conditions for lice survival.
- Implement a routine inspection schedule: examine 10 % of birds weekly, focusing on the vent area, neck, and legs, and record findings.
Biosecurity practices prevent introduction:
- Quarantine new stock for at least 14 days, treating any detected parasites before integration.
- Restrict access to personnel and equipment; use footbaths and hand sanitizers at entry points.
- Source feed and water from certified suppliers, storing them in sealed containers to avoid accidental contamination.
Monitoring and record‑keeping are essential. Document each treatment, dosage, and observed efficacy. Analyze trends to adjust protocols promptly. Combining these strategies delivers sustained lice elimination, improves flock health, and protects product quality.