How to treat lice in chickens and the coop? - briefly
Apply a poultry‑safe insecticidal spray or powder directly to the chickens and thoroughly treat the coop—walls, perches, and nesting boxes—with the same product, then repeat the application every 7‑10 days until lice are eliminated. Maintain regular cleaning, replace bedding, and keep the coop dry to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat lice in chickens and the coop? - in detail
Lice infestations in poultry cause irritation, feather loss, and reduced egg production. Effective control requires simultaneous treatment of the birds and the environment.
First, confirm the presence of lice by examining the vent area, feather shafts, and skin for small, grayish insects moving quickly. A handheld flashlight and a fine-toothed comb help collect specimens for identification.
Treatment of the flock
- Topical insecticides – Apply a commercial poultry spray or dust containing permethrin, pyrethrin, or carbaryl according to label directions. Cover the entire body, focusing on the vent and underwing areas. Repeat after 7‑10 days to target newly hatched lice.
- Diatomaceous earth – Lightly dust the birds with food‑grade diatomaceous earth. The abrasive particles damage the exoskeletons, leading to dehydration. Apply after cleaning to avoid clumping with moisture.
- Herbal powders – Mix equal parts dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano, then dust the chickens. Essential oils in these herbs have insecticidal properties and are safe for regular use.
- Systemic options – In severe cases, a veterinarian may prescribe an oral or injectable medication such as ivermectin. Follow the veterinary dosage schedule precisely.
Sanitation of the coop
- Remove all roosting bars, perches, and nesting boxes. Soak them in hot water (≥60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then scrub with a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
- Vacuum or sweep all litter, droppings, and debris. Dispose of waste far from the poultry area to prevent re‑infestation.
- Apply a residual insecticidal dust to the interior surfaces, including walls, floor, and crevices. Use a fine‑mist applicator to achieve even coverage.
- Replace litter with fresh, dry material such as pine shavings. Ensure the substrate remains dry; moisture encourages lice survival.
- Install wire mesh or screen on ventilation openings to block external insects from entering.
Preventive measures
- Conduct weekly inspections, especially during warm months when lice reproduce rapidly.
- Rotate dusting agents (e.g., permethrin one month, diatomaceous earth the next) to avoid resistance buildup.
- Maintain low humidity and good airflow; lice thrive in damp, stagnant conditions.
- Limit contact with wild birds or rodents that can introduce parasites.
- Provide a clean water source and balanced diet; healthy birds are less susceptible to heavy infestations.
By integrating chemical, mechanical, and environmental strategies, the parasite load can be eliminated and future outbreaks minimized. Regular monitoring and disciplined coop management are essential for sustained poultry health.