How to get rid of fleas and lice in chickens? - briefly
Apply a poultry‑safe insecticide (e.g., diatomaceous earth or a licensed spray) to the coop and treat the birds with a mild insecticidal wash, then thoroughly clean and disinfect all equipment and replace bedding. Maintain regular sanitation and rotate litter to keep the environment inhospitable to parasites.
How to get rid of fleas and lice in chickens? - in detail
Fleas and lice infestations in poultry cause irritation, feather loss, reduced egg production, and can spread disease. Effective control requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment, environmental sanitation, and ongoing prevention.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Separate affected birds from the flock and examine each bird’s skin, vent area, and feather shafts for moving insects or eggs. Use a fine-toothed comb to collect specimens for identification if needed.
Apply an appropriate topical insecticide. Choose products labeled for use on chickens, such as pyrethrin‑based sprays or permethrin dusts. Follow label directions precisely: apply to the vent area, under the wings, and along the neck. Wear protective gloves and ensure adequate ventilation. Repeat the application after 5–7 days to interrupt the life cycle, as eggs hatch within this interval.
Implement a dusting regimen for the coop. Lightly dust all surfaces—perches, nesting boxes, floorboards—with a residual insecticide powder. Use a hand‑held duster to reach crevices where larvae hide. After dusting, allow birds to remain in the coop for the recommended exposure period, typically 24–48 hours.
Sanitize the environment. Remove all bedding, then wash the coop with hot water (minimum 140 °F) and a detergent solution. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely before adding fresh bedding. Scrub and disinfect waterers and feeders with a diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite) and rinse well.
Introduce biological controls where feasible. Beneficial nematodes (e.g., Steinernema spp.) can be applied to litter to target flea larvae. Diatomaceous earth, food‑grade grade, may be spread thinly on the floor to desiccate insects; maintain a dry environment to preserve its efficacy.
Consider natural repellents for ongoing protection. A diluted mixture of apple cider vinegar (1 part) and water (4 parts) can be sprayed on birds’ feathers to deter lice. Essential oils such as tea tree or eucalyptus, diluted to 0.5 % in carrier oil, may be applied to perches, but avoid direct contact with the birds’ skin.
Maintain rigorous biosecurity. Limit access to the coop, quarantine new birds for at least two weeks, and regularly clean equipment. Rotate litter at least monthly to prevent buildup of eggs and pupae.
Monitor progress. Conduct weekly inspections for three weeks after treatment. Record any reappearance of insects and adjust the control program accordingly. Persistent infestations may require veterinary consultation for prescription‑strength medications.
By integrating immediate insecticide application, thorough coop sanitation, biological agents, and preventive management, infestations can be eliminated and the flock’s health preserved.