How to treat hens affected by ticks? - briefly
Remove attached ticks with a fine‑toothed comb, apply a poultry‑safe acaricide following label directions, thoroughly clean the coop, replace bedding, and use diatomaceous earth or a natural oil spray to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat hens affected by ticks? - in detail
Ticks on laying hens cause irritation, blood loss, and potential disease transmission. Effective control requires a combination of environmental sanitation, direct treatment of the birds, and preventive measures.
First, remove all organic debris from the coop. Replace bedding with clean material, and clean perches, nest boxes, and feeding stations. Apply a thorough wash with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) and rinse well. Ensure proper ventilation to reduce humidity, which favors tick development.
Second, treat the birds directly. Use an approved acaricide formulated for poultry, such as a pyrethrin‑based spray or a fipronil‑containing pour‑on. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage strictly: typically 0.5 ml per bird applied to the ventral side and under the wings, avoiding the eyes and beak. Repeat the application after 7 days to break the life cycle. For severe infestations, a short course of ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg body weight) administered orally can be added, respecting withdrawal periods for egg production.
Third, implement ongoing prevention:
- Rotate and clean perches weekly.
- Inspect and treat any surrounding vegetation where ticks may reside.
- Apply diatomaceous earth lightly on the coop floor; it acts as a mechanical desiccant.
- Keep the flock away from wildlife reservoirs (e.g., rodents, wild birds) that harbor ticks.
- Monitor the flock weekly; remove any bird showing signs of excessive scratching or lesions.
Lastly, maintain a record of treatments, dates, and observed efficacy. Adjust the control program based on tick counts and any adverse reactions. Consistent application of these steps reduces tick burden, improves hen health, and safeguards egg quality.