Dawg53 and everyone else I need worming advice

[navychick]

I have 12 happy, healthy 10 week old pullets. Is it appropriate to worm them preventatively? Can someone please give me very specific details? Worms really creep me out and I'd like to prevent them if at all possible. Thank you,

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

10 weeks old is too young for prevention with the chemical wormers. There is some talk about pumpkin seeds though- you might search for it. I think some say that they are a preventative.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?pid=6366580
here post #2

 

[speckledhen]

They're too young for that, IMO. In fact, my first chickens were two years old before I wormed them for the very first time. If they free range, they probably will rarely need worming. It's up to you, but they're still babies yet.

 

[kevs-chickadees]

Quote:
Just curious, how come if they free range they are less likely to get worms? I agree as to mine free range but always wondered.

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

Quote:
Just curious, how come if they free range they are less likely to get worms? I agree as to mine free range but always wondered.

The ground becomes covered in worm eggs. Rototilling once a year can be beneficial I have read if you can't free range.

 

[kevs-chickadees]

Thanks, makes perfect sense now.

 

[speckledhen]

In addition to that, depending on what is growing on your property, they may be consuming natural worm preventatives while on range.