Diatomaceous Earth

[Ausdudette]

I live in a really sandy area & wonder if mixing Diatomaceous Earth helps get rid of mites, fleas etc as it says it does?

 

[aart]

No, it does not.
The sandy area will allow them to dust bathe and that will help.

Regularly checking them over real well for mites and/or lice is good to do,
then using an appropriate insecticide if you find any.

Google images of lice/mites and their eggs before the inspection so you'll know what you're looking for.

Part the feathers right down to the skin around vent, head/neck and under wings.

Best done well after dark with a strong flashlight/headlight, easier to 'catch' bird and also to check for the mites that live in structure and only come out at night to feed off roosting birds.

Wipe a white paper towel along the underside of roost to look for red smears(smashed well fed mites).

 

[Toothpick]

I sprinkle it in my coop but no idea if it actually works. I just like the peace of mind thinking it does. Mine dust bathe in the run/coop. I’ve never checked them for mites or lice or anything really.