Turkeys have fleas, what should I do? - briefly
Inspect the birds, isolate affected individuals, and apply a poultry‑approved flea treatment to both the birds and their housing. Consult a veterinarian for dosage guidance and establish regular cleaning to prevent reinfestation.
Turkeys have fleas, what should I do? - in detail
If your turkeys are showing signs of flea infestation, immediate action is required to protect the birds’ health and prevent spread.
First, confirm the presence of fleas. Look for small, dark insects moving through the feathers, especially around the vent, legs, and under the wings. Examine droppings for tiny black specks, which are flea feces.
Next, isolate the affected birds. Move them to a clean, well‑ventilated enclosure that can be fully cleaned and treated without exposing the rest of the flock.
Apply an appropriate ectoparasite treatment. Options include:
- Topical insecticides specifically labeled for poultry (e.g., pyrethrin‑based sprays). Follow the manufacturer’s dosage and re‑application schedule.
- Dusting powders containing permethrin or carbaryl. Dust the birds thoroughly, paying attention to feather bases and skin folds.
- Oral medications such as ivermectin, administered under veterinary guidance.
Treat the environment concurrently. Remove all bedding, then wash or replace it. Scrub coop surfaces with a diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite) to kill eggs and larvae. After cleaning, apply a residual insecticide to walls, perches, and nesting boxes.
Implement preventive measures:
- Rotate and replace bedding regularly.
- Keep the coop dry; moisture encourages flea development.
- Install physical barriers (e.g., fine‑mesh screens) to limit wild‑animal entry.
- Conduct routine health checks and treat any new infestations promptly.
Consult a veterinarian experienced with poultry. A professional can confirm species identification, recommend the safest medication, and advise on dosage adjustments for different ages or production stages.
Finally, monitor the flock for at least two weeks after treatment. Record any recurrence of fleas, skin irritation, or changes in behavior. Adjust the control program if signs reappear, ensuring that all steps—bird treatment, environmental sanitation, and preventive management—are consistently applied.