How to combat red mites in chickens? - briefly
Apply thorough coop cleaning, dust birds with diatomaceous earth, and use an approved acaricide spray on nesting areas, repeating applications per label instructions. Monitor perches and nests weekly, isolating any infested birds to stop re‑infestation.
How to combat red mites in chickens? - in detail
Red poultry mites (Dermanyssus gallinae) feed on chickens at night, cause irritation, anemia, and reduced egg production. Effective control requires a systematic approach that combines detection, sanitation, treatment, and ongoing monitoring.
First, confirm infestation by inspecting roosts, perches, and coop walls for dark specks, tiny moving insects, or small blood spots on bedding. Use a white sheet under a perch at night; mites will fall and become visible. Early detection limits population growth.
Next, remove the environment that supports mite survival. Strip the coop of all litter, nesting material, and debris. Clean surfaces with hot water (minimum 60 °C) and a detergent that leaves no residue. Allow the structure to dry completely before adding fresh bedding. Seal cracks, gaps, and crevices where mites hide; fill holes with steel wool or caulk.
Chemical options include approved acaricides such as pyrethroids, organophosphates, or carbamates. Apply according to label instructions, targeting night‑time activity periods. Use a spray or dust formulation on roosts, perches, and cracks. Rotate active ingredients each treatment cycle to prevent resistance.
Non‑chemical alternatives provide additional control:
- Diatomaceous earth – spread a thin layer on roosts; particles abrade mite exoskeletons.
- Essential‑oil sprays – neem, peppermint, or eucalyptus oils diluted to 1 % act as repellents.
- Heat treatment – raise coop temperature to 45 °C for at least 30 minutes; mites cannot survive prolonged heat.
- Biological agents – entomopathogenic fungi (e.g., Beauveria bassiana) applied as a spray infect and kill mites.
After treatment, re‑introduce clean bedding and monitor daily for three weeks. Use sticky traps or cardboard boards placed near roosts to gauge remaining activity. If traps still capture mites, repeat the chosen control method.
Long‑term prevention hinges on regular maintenance:
- Change litter every 2–3 weeks.
- Clean roosts and perches monthly.
- Rotate or replace bedding material to disrupt mite life cycles.
- Keep coop dry; excess moisture encourages mite survival.
- Conduct quarterly inspections, even when no symptoms are evident.
By integrating thorough cleaning, targeted chemical or non‑chemical interventions, and consistent surveillance, a flock can be kept free of red mites, minimizing health impacts and preserving production efficiency.