How do you remove lice from chickens and a coop? - briefly
Apply a poultry‑safe insecticide spray or dust directly to the birds, then strip the coop of all bedding, scrub surfaces with a diluted bleach solution, and replace with fresh, clean material. Repeat the treatment weekly for several cycles and keep the environment consistently clean to prevent recurrence.
How do you remove lice from chickens and a coop? - in detail
Lice infestations in poultry require immediate action on both the birds and their environment. Begin by confirming the presence of lice: inspect feather shafts, vent area, and skin for moving insects or tiny dark specks. Use a fine-toothed comb to pull out specimens for identification.
Treat the birds first. Apply a dust or spray formulated for avian lice, following the product label for dosage and safety intervals. Common options include pyrethrin‑based dusts, permethrin sprays, or herbal powders such as diatomaceous earth. Distribute the treatment evenly, covering the head, neck, back, and vent region. After application, isolate the treated flock for at least 24 hours to prevent cross‑contamination and to allow the insecticide to act.
Next, address the coop. Remove all bedding, nesting material, and debris. Wash removable items in hot water (minimum 130 °F) with a mild detergent, then dry thoroughly. Scrub surfaces—perches, walls, and floor—with a detergent solution, then rinse. Apply an approved insecticide spray or dust to cracks, crevices, and all woodwork, ensuring coverage of hidden areas where lice hide. Allow the product to dry before re‑adding clean bedding.
After cleaning, replace bedding with fresh, dry material such as straw or pine shavings. Re‑install perches and nesting boxes only after the insecticide has cured. Maintain low humidity and good ventilation to discourage mite and louse development.
Implement preventative measures: conduct weekly inspections, rotate perches and nesting boxes, and apply a light dusting of diatomaceous earth to the coop floor every few weeks. Provide regular baths or dust baths for the birds using fine sand or ash, which helps remove parasites naturally. Limit contact with wild birds and stray animals that can introduce new infestations.
Finally, record treatment dates, products used, and observed results. This log facilitates timely re‑treatment if lice reappear and supports long‑term flock health.