Why do hens get fleas? - briefly
Hens become infested when flea eggs or adults are introduced through dirty coop conditions, close contact with other animals, or contaminated bedding, allowing the parasites to thrive in the warm, humid environment. Effective sanitation, regular cleaning, and prompt treatment interrupt the flea life cycle and prevent reinfestation.
Why do hens get fleas? - in detail
Flea infestations in chickens arise from a combination of environmental, biological, and management factors. Adult fleas lay eggs in the coop’s litter, dust, and surrounding vegetation. The eggs hatch into larvae that feed on organic debris, then pupate in protected crevices. When conditions become warm and humid, adult fleas emerge and seek a blood meal, often from the birds themselves.
Key contributors include:
- Litter moisture – excess dampness accelerates egg hatching and larval development.
- Poor sanitation – accumulated manure and feathers provide food and shelter for immature stages.
- Outdoor access – free‑range birds encounter wild rodents and other mammals that carry fleas, facilitating cross‑species transmission.
- Overcrowding – high bird density increases contact rates, allowing adult fleas to locate hosts more easily.
- Lack of regular cleaning – infrequent removal of soiled bedding allows flea life cycles to complete uninterrupted.
The flea life cycle typically spans 2–3 weeks under optimal temperature (20‑30 °C) and humidity (70‑80 %). Interrupting any stage can reduce population pressure. Effective control measures focus on habitat disruption and direct treatment:
- Thorough coop cleaning – remove all litter, scrub surfaces with a mild disinfectant, and replace with dry, absorbent bedding.
- Environmental drying – ensure proper ventilation to keep humidity below 60 %.
- Physical barriers – seal cracks, gaps, and crevices where pupae may hide.
- Chemical control – apply poultry‑safe insecticidal powders or sprays according to label instructions; repeat after 7–10 days to target emerging adults.
- Biological agents – introduce nematodes (e.g., Steinernema spp.) that parasitize flea larvae in the litter.
- Regular monitoring – inspect birds and bedding weekly for signs of fleas (scratching, visible insects, or flea dirt).
Preventive management combines consistent sanitation, controlled outdoor exposure, and periodic treatment during peak flea season. By maintaining a dry, clean environment and limiting contact with wild reservoirs, the risk of infestation diminishes substantially.