How to get rid of feather mites in a poultry house? - briefly
Treat the flock with a licensed acaricide—e.g., a pyrethrin spray—covering feathers, skin, and the environment, while cleaning, drying, and disinfecting the house and replacing litter. Repeat the application after 10–14 days to interrupt the mite life cycle.
How to get rid of feather mites in a poultry house? - in detail
Feather mites thrive in warm, humid environments and spread quickly among birds that share the same space. Effective control requires a combination of sanitation, chemical treatment, and ongoing monitoring.
First, remove all organic debris from the house. Sweep litter, clean perches, and discard any soiled bedding. Replace the litter with fresh material that has low moisture content. Wash all equipment—feeders, waterers, nesting boxes—with hot water and a disinfectant approved for poultry facilities. Allow surfaces to dry completely before re‑installing them.
Second, treat the flock. Apply a topical acaricide formulated for avian use to each bird, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety guidelines. For large flocks, a dusting powder can be spread over the entire house, ensuring that birds come into contact with the product while moving. Repeat the application after the life cycle of the mite (approximately 7–10 days) to eradicate newly hatched individuals.
Third, control the environment. Reduce humidity by improving ventilation and using dehumidifiers where necessary. Maintain temperature within the optimal range for the birds, not for the parasites. Seal cracks and gaps that allow wild birds or rodents to enter, as they can introduce new infestations.
Fourth, implement a regular inspection schedule. Examine a sample of birds weekly, looking for signs such as feather loss, scaly skin, or visible mites. Record findings and adjust treatment frequency accordingly.
A typical protocol may include:
- Deep clean and disinfect the house every 30 days.
- Apply topical acaricide to all birds at day 0 and repeat at day 10.
- Dust the entire facility with an approved powder at day 0, day 7, and day 14.
- Monitor humidity, keeping it below 60 % relative humidity.
- Conduct weekly health checks and maintain a log of mite counts.
Consistent application of these steps breaks the mite life cycle, eliminates existing populations, and prevents reinfestation. Regular biosecurity measures—such as footbaths, dedicated clothing, and restricted access—further reduce the risk of re‑introduction.