Diatomaceous Earth - What can I do with it?

[melinda653]

I just got a 10 lb. bag of food grade diatomaceous earth and I was would like to know what I can do with it in regard to my chickens. I have two hens. I was wondering in what ways I can use it on them or in their coop. Any suggestions?

 

[ChickensRDinos]

I mix it into the bedding I put in the nests and also into the dirt I use for their dust baths to help prevent mites. Some people feed it thinking it will prevent parasites but there is not a lot of evidence to support that it works. Better for use to prevent mites and lice also great for ants and stuff like that.

 

[melinda653]

They take dirt baths in the woods. Should I sprinkle some out there?

 

[chfite]

I would use it (DE) in a dust bath that I had constructed such as one in a large pan that was kept in the coop.

I put DE in the food and dust the litter with it.

Chris