can anyone identify this bug?

[csaylorchickens]

I found thousands of these little gray bugs the other day running around during the day. They were not just in the coop or run, they were around the perimeter of the chickens area and almost all over the ground outside in my backyard. I wasn't sure if these bugs were harmful little guys, but I do not want to take any chances. I tucked in the girls two nights ago and there were thousands on the bottom of the run underneath the coop, twice as much as during the day! None are in the coop, I checked several times. So I ordered DE, I was hesitant to do so but right now the risk is worth the benefit. I also ordered mana pro, a spray to use on the coop and run and chickens themselves that is considered safe. I can use the DE underneath the river sand in the coop, and around the chickens area, and I am thinking I can sprinkle very lightly in the run over night so it can settle before they run around.

I just wanted to know if any of you might know what these are? Any other advice welcome!

thank you

 

[rides2far]

It looks like a silver fish.

 

[csaylorchickens]

what is a silver fish? Is it a harmful bug to the chickens?

 

[Talithahorse]

silver fish are not harmful to chickens, they don't bite and are relatively common. They are a pest because they will eat paper and books.

 

[csaylorchickens]

thank goodness! They are just around the chicken coop, but I am going to lay down DE and spray the chickens with mana pro just incase. Thank you ladies for your help, I feel much better now. I checked the girls. Their vents are clean, no mites or insects noticed to the vent or around it or under their wings. They seem happy and healthy!