What should be done with ticks on chickens? - briefly
Inspect chickens, remove any attached ticks by hand and treat the flock with a poultry‑approved acaricide following label instructions; then clean the coop and limit wildlife access to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done with ticks on chickens? - in detail
Ticks on poultry pose a health risk and must be addressed promptly. Begin with a thorough inspection of each bird, focusing on the vent region, under the wings, and around the legs. Use a fine‑toothed comb or tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull straight upward, and discard the parasite in a sealed container. Avoid crushing the body, which can release pathogens.
After removal, clean the affected area with a mild antiseptic solution, such as diluted chlorhexidine, and monitor for redness or swelling. If lesions develop, apply a veterinary‑approved topical ointment and consult a professional for possible systemic treatment.
Implement a chemical control program for the coop. Apply a pyrethrin‑based spray or dust to perches, nesting boxes, and floor surfaces, following label directions for concentration and re‑application intervals. Rotate products to prevent resistance.
Environmental management reduces re‑infestation. Remove excess litter weekly, replace with fresh bedding, and keep the coop dry. Trim surrounding vegetation, especially low‑lying brush, to eliminate tick habitats. Introduce a regular grazing schedule on tick‑free pasture, and rotate pastures to interrupt the life cycle.
Consider biological controls where appropriate. Predatory nematodes or fungal agents (e.g., Metarhizium spp.) can be introduced to the yard, targeting tick larvae in the soil.
Maintain a schedule of health checks, at least once per week during peak tick season, and keep records of infestations and treatments. Prompt detection, effective removal, targeted chemical or biological interventions, and diligent coop hygiene collectively eliminate the problem and protect flock health.