How to get rid of soil fleas in a chicken coop? - briefly
Apply a thorough cleaning: remove all bedding, replace with fresh straw, and sprinkle food‑grade diatomaceous earth or an approved insecticide on the floor and nesting boxes, then seal cracks to prevent re‑infestation. Maintain dry conditions and rotate bedding regularly to discourage flea development.
How to get rid of soil fleas in a chicken coop? - in detail
Eliminate soil fleas from a chicken coop by combining sanitation, environmental modification, and targeted treatment.
First, remove all bedding and debris. Dispose of litter in sealed bags and replace it with fresh, dry material such as sand or kiln‑dried wood shavings. Clean the floor, walls, and perches with a strong detergent, then rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
Second, reduce moisture. Repair leaks, improve ventilation, and install a drip‑free roof. Use a dehumidifier or place absorbent mats in damp zones to keep humidity below 50 %, a level that hinders flea development.
Third, treat the environment. Apply a residual insecticide labeled for indoor poultry use, following label instructions for concentration and safety intervals. For organic options, sprinkle diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) at a rate of 1 cup per 100 sq ft, then brush it into cracks and crevices. Repeat the application weekly for three weeks to cover the flea life cycle.
Fourth, protect the flock. Bathe chickens with a mild insecticidal spray or dust them with a fine layer of diatomaceous earth, focusing on the ventral surface and feather bases where fleas hide. Perform this treatment every 5–7 days until no fleas are observed.
Fifth, monitor and maintain. Set sticky traps near entry points to detect re‑infestation. Conduct weekly inspections of litter, perches, and nesting boxes for signs of fleas or larvae. Replace bedding promptly if it becomes damp or soiled.
By adhering to these steps—thorough cleaning, moisture control, chemical or mineral treatment, direct flock protection, and ongoing surveillance—the flea population will be suppressed and eventually eradicated, preserving the health and productivity of the chickens.