Diatomaceous Earth in coop?

[member 546703]

I am fairly new and still learning how to properly raise chickens. (I have a 1 year old RIR and a bantam currently and have new chicks coming in the mail)
I’ve read that it is good to place diatomaceous earth in your nesting boxes and coop floor.
I sprinkled a thin layer around underneath the hay in the nesting boxes and also some in the coop floor which I also covered with a layer of hay.
Now, I’m second guessing my decision and am worried that it may not be healthy for my girls? Any advice here? Thank you

 

[Mark_Khrushchev]

I am fairly new and still learning how to properly raise chickens. (I have a 1 year old RIR and a bantam currently and have new chicks coming in the mail)
I’ve read that it is good to place diatomaceous earth in your nesting boxes and coop floor.
I sprinkled a thin layer around underneath the hay in the nesting boxes and also some in the coop floor which I also covered with a layer of hay.
Now, I’m second guessing my decision and am worried that it may not be healthy for my girls? Any advice here? Thank you

Putting it in nesting boxes might not have been the best idea but we all make mistakes. But good thing you put it on the coop floor. It won't hurt him but it might get annoying. But if you just sprinkled a but you would be fine on the nesting boxes. Also put a bit in their food if you can. But not alot since it can damage the taste of the food. Anyway, you're a natural!

 

[Hobbits Mommie]

Birds have very delicate respiratory systems, and the fine particles of DE can be problematic for them, as well as you.

 

[AlleysChicks]

DE can cause respiratory problems. Its very fine and clouds up quite a bit.

I usually mix DE in their dust bath with various things and it doesn't cloud up. I just like it because its always very cool to the touch. And my birds live in the bathing areas when it's hot.

Question. What are you trying to accomplish with the DE? Are you worried about mites? Lice? There are sprays that are much easier and you dont have to worry about them getting sick.

 

[Hobbits Mommie]

DE is great in the garden, but I'd never put it anywhere near the chickens, or dogs.

 

[member 546703]

DE can cause respiratory problems. Its very fine and clouds up quite a bit.

I usually mix DE in their dust bath with various things and it doesn't cloud up. I just like it because its always very cool to the touch. And my birds live in the bathing areas when it's hot.

Question. What are you trying to accomplish with the DE? Are you worried about mites? Lice? There are sprays that are much easier and you dont have to worry about them getting sick.

Yes, I was trying to prevent mites, but also read that it was good to keep odors down to help ward off mice, flies, etc. I do keep the coop clean but thought this would be a good added step. Maybe not

 

[Kiki]

It really doesn't help prevent mites and it for sure won't rid them.
I'd save the money and not buy it again if I were you.

 

[member 546703]

Putting it in nesting boxes might not have been the best idea but we all make mistakes. But good thing you put it on the coop floor. It won't hurt him but it might get annoying. But if you just sprinkled a but you would be fine on the nesting boxes. Also put a bit in their food if you can. But not alot since it can damage the taste of the food. Anyway, you're a natural!

Thanks for the advice and encouragement. I’m learning as I go and found it’s helpful to ask questions early!

 

[Mark_Khrushchev]

Yes, I was trying to prevent mites, but also read that it was good to keep odors down to help ward off mice, flies, etc. I do keep the coop clean but thought this would be a good added step. Maybe not

It is true it can damage the bird's respiratory system, you can't add alot.

 

[Mark_Khrushchev]

Just make sure to use protection while "sprinkling" the DE on the coop.