What to do if chickens develop mites? - briefly
Inspect the flock, isolate any birds showing signs, and apply a suitable acaricide (e.g., permethrin spray or dust) according to label directions. Clean the coop, replace bedding, and keep humidity low to prevent recurrence.
What to do if chickens develop mites? - in detail
Mite infestations in a flock require immediate identification and targeted action. First, inspect birds daily for signs such as feather loss, scaly skin, or visible tiny moving specks on the legs and under the wings. Confirm the presence of mites by collecting a few feathers and examining them under a light source.
Once confirmed, separate affected chickens from healthy individuals to limit spread. Use a clean, well‑ventilated area for the quarantine pen and provide fresh water and feed.
Apply an approved acaricide according to the label dosage. Common options include pyrethrin‑based sprays, carbaryl dust, or ivermectin‑containing products. Thoroughly coat the birds’ vent area, under the wings, and around the tail base, then repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to break the mite life cycle.
Simultaneously, treat the environment. Remove all bedding, clean the coop with hot water, and disinfect surfaces with a solution containing 1 % bleach or a commercial poultry sanitizer. Fill gaps in the structure, seal cracks, and install fine mesh on ventilation openings to prevent re‑entry.
After treatment, monitor the flock for at least two weeks. Look for any recurrence of symptoms and repeat the acaricide if necessary. Maintain a routine cleaning schedule: replace bedding weekly, dust the coop with diatomaceous earth monthly, and rotate perches to discourage mite habitats.
Preventive measures include regular health checks, keeping the coop dry, providing adequate sunlight, and avoiding overcrowding. Incorporate a low‑dose probiotic or herbal supplement known to support feather health, which can reduce the attractiveness of birds to parasites.
By following detection, isolation, chemical control, thorough sanitation, and ongoing prevention, mite problems can be eliminated and the flock’s productivity restored.