How to treat a chicken coop for lice and fleas? - briefly
Remove bedding, scrub and disinfect the coop with a poultry‑safe acaricide, then dust or spray a pyrethrin‑based product (or approved permethrin) on all surfaces, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days; keep the area clean and dry to prevent recurrence.
How to treat a chicken coop for lice and fleas? - in detail
Treat an infested coop with a systematic approach that eliminates parasites, restores a sanitary environment, and prevents recurrence.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Remove all birds and place them in a secure, temporary enclosure. Examine each bird for live lice, flea eggs, and skin irritation. Use a fine‑toothed comb or a lice detection brush to collect specimens for identification, confirming the presence of both ectoparasites.
Deep clean the structure. Strip the coop of all bedding, perches, and nest boxes. Wash removable items in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) with a detergent that contains a degreaser. Disinfect non‑porous surfaces with a solution of 1 % sodium hypochlorite (approximately ½ cup bleach per gallon of water). Allow the coop to dry completely; sunlight and ventilation accelerate drying and reduce humidity, which discourages parasite development.
Apply an appropriate insecticide. Choose a product labeled for poultry use, such as a pyrethrin‑based spray or a permethrin dust. Follow label directions for concentration and safety intervals. Apply the insecticide to all interior surfaces, focusing on cracks, roosts, and nesting areas where insects hide. Use a hand‑held sprayer for even coverage, then allow the treated area to air out for the recommended period before returning birds.
Treat the birds directly. Administer a topical anti‑lice/flea preparation approved for chickens, such as a carbaryl or pyrethrin solution. Apply the product to the bird’s ventral and dorsal plumage, avoiding the eyes and beak. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to break the life cycle, as most lice and flea eggs hatch within that window.
Re‑populate the coop with fresh bedding. Use an absorbent material like pine shavings, which contain natural oils that repel insects. Spread a uniform layer of at least 2 inches (5 cm) to provide insulation and comfort. Install cleaned perches and nest boxes, ensuring they are free of cracks or crevices where parasites can hide.
Implement preventive measures. Rotate bedding weekly, removing soiled sections and adding fresh shavings. Conduct a weekly visual inspection of the flock and coop interior. Apply a light dusting of diatomaceous earth (food grade) to perches and floor surfaces; its abrasive particles dehydrate arthropods without harming chickens. Maintain low humidity by ensuring adequate ventilation and preventing water pooling.
Monitor for reinfestation. Keep a log of observations, noting any signs of itching, feather loss, or visible insects. If recurrence occurs, repeat the cleaning and treatment cycle, adjusting the insecticide concentration or switching to an alternative class of product to avoid resistance.
By executing these steps—inspection, deep cleaning, targeted chemical treatment, direct bird therapy, fresh bedding, ongoing prevention, and vigilant monitoring—the coop will be restored to a parasite‑free state, supporting the health and productivity of the flock.