How to eradicate chicken lice? - briefly
Thoroughly clean the coop, apply a poultry‑safe insecticide to both the environment and the birds, and repeat the treatment every 7‑10 days until lice are no longer detected. Maintain regular inspections and replace bedding frequently to prevent reinfestation.
How to eradicate chicken lice? - in detail
Eliminating lice from a poultry flock requires a systematic approach that combines sanitation, chemical treatment, and ongoing monitoring.
First, remove all debris, manure, and old bedding from the coop. Replace with fresh, dry litter and clean surfaces with a detergent‑based solution. Disinfect the entire structure using a solution of diluted bleach (1 % sodium hypochlorite) or a commercial poultry disinfectant, allowing it to dry completely before re‑introducing birds.
Second, apply an approved insecticide directly to the birds and their environment. Options include:
- Topical sprays containing pyrethrin or permethrin, applied to the bird’s ventral side and under the wings, following label dosage.
- Dust powders such as diatomaceous earth or pyrethrum dust, spread evenly over the litter and feathered areas.
- Oral medications (e.g., ivermectin) administered according to veterinary guidance for systemic control.
Third, isolate any birds showing heavy infestation. Treat them separately for at least 48 hours, then return them to the main flock after confirming the absence of live lice.
Fourth, implement a routine schedule: clean and disinfect the coop weekly, replace litter every two weeks, and re‑apply insecticidal dust or spray every 7–10 days during peak infestation periods.
Finally, monitor the flock daily by inspecting feathers, vent area, and skin for moving lice or eggs. Use a fine‑toothed comb to collect specimens and verify treatment efficacy. Record findings and adjust the control program if lice reappear.
By integrating thorough sanitation, targeted chemical control, isolation of affected birds, and regular observation, a poultry keeper can achieve complete eradication of lice and maintain a healthy flock.