How to get rid of fleas on chickens at home? - briefly
Apply a safe, topical insecticide (e.g., pyrethrin spray) to the birds and thoroughly clean the coop by removing bedding, vacuuming crevices, and sprinkling diatomaceous earth. Bathe the chickens regularly and keep the enclosure dry to prevent recurrence.
How to get rid of fleas on chickens at home? - in detail
Fleas on backyard poultry cause irritation, anemia, and reduced egg production. Effective control requires a combination of environmental sanitation, direct treatment of the birds, and ongoing prevention.
First, clean the coop thoroughly. Remove all bedding, dispose of it in a sealed bag, and scrub surfaces with a detergent solution. After drying, replace bedding with fresh, low‑dust material such as pine shavings. Repeat this process weekly until the infestation subsides.
Second, treat the chickens directly. Options include:
- Insecticidal powders – apply a dust containing pyrethrin or permethrin to the vent area, legs, and under the wings. Follow label dosage; reapply after 7–10 days.
- Diatomaceous earth – sprinkle food‑grade DE on perches, nest boxes, and bedding. The abrasive particles damage flea exoskeletons. Use sparingly to avoid respiratory irritation.
- Insecticidal sprays – use a poultry‑safe spray containing permethrin or carbaryl. Coat feathers, focusing on the vent region. Avoid over‑spraying; a light mist suffices.
- Natural oils – dilute a few drops of lavender or neem oil in water and apply as a spray. These act as repellents but may require more frequent reapplication.
Third, address the surrounding area. Trim grass and vegetation within a two‑meter radius of the coop to reduce flea habitats. Apply a perimeter treatment of a residual insecticide if permitted by local regulations.
Fourth, monitor the flock. Inspect each bird daily for signs of flea activity: black specks in the vent, excessive preening, or visible insects. Use a fine‑toothed comb to collect any fleas for identification.
Finally, establish a preventive schedule. Rotate bedding weekly, clean water containers daily, and apply a light dusting of DE or a low‑toxicity repellent every 14 days. Maintaining low humidity inside the coop discourages flea development.
By integrating thorough coop sanitation, appropriate topical treatments, habitat reduction, and regular monitoring, the flea population can be eliminated and kept under control.