How to get rid of red mites on chickens? - briefly
Apply diatomaceous earth or a registered acaricide to the birds and all coop surfaces, repeating the treatment every 7‑10 days until mites are eradicated. Maintain strict sanitation by regularly removing litter, cleaning perches, and using mite traps to detect any resurgence.
How to get rid of red mites on chickens? - in detail
Red mite infestations cause irritation, anemia, and reduced egg production in backyard flocks. Effective control requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment, environmental sanitation, and long‑term prevention.
First, identify the problem. Adult mites hide in the vent area, under the wings, and in the coop’s cracks. Lightly dust the bird’s vent with a fine powder (e.g., diatomaceous earth) and examine the feather bases for moving insects. A sticky trap placed near the roosting area confirms activity levels.
Second, apply an acaricide approved for poultry. Options include pyrethrin‑based sprays, carbaryl dust, or spinosad formulations. Follow label directions precisely: coat the bird’s vent and feather roots, then treat the entire coop, focusing on perches, nest boxes, and litter. Repeat applications at seven‑day intervals for three cycles to break the mite life cycle.
Third, cleanse the environment. Remove all bedding, discard it, and replace with fresh material. Scrub perches, walls, and nest boxes with hot, soapy water; rinse and dry thoroughly. Vacuum cracks and crevices, then apply a residual acaricide to these hidden niches.
Fourth, implement preventive measures. Rotate bedding weekly, maintain low humidity, and keep the coop dry. Install a fine‑mesh screen on ventilation openings to limit mite entry. Regularly dust birds with food‑grade diatomaceous earth to create a hostile surface for mites.
Finally, monitor continuously. Weekly visual checks and monthly sticky‑trap counts detect resurgence early. Adjust treatment frequency if mite numbers rise, and maintain strict sanitation to prevent re‑infestation.