Diatomaceous Earth

[maadroj]

Does anyone use this, and if so, how? I've looked at a food grade package that recommends using a mask while using it. Should I be concerned about the potential for the quail to breathe it in? I have been considering sprinkling it in the areas where they sleep, nap, and dust bathe to prevent/eliminate any mites, but I am concerned about them breathing it and collateral damage to innocent insects. I appreciate hearing about others' experience with it. Thanks!

 

[Ridgerunner]

My thoughts are in this thread

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/diatomaceous-earth.1340337/#post-21963768

 

[sorce]

I use Napa Floor Dry # 8822 as a substrate for bonsai trees.
It's good for soaking up oil too.

Every other "use" is made up and marketed to sell byproduct. AKA a hoax. AKA pure profit. AKA snake oil.

Grandma been raising chickens forever and she don't know what "food grade DE" is.

Sorce

 

[maadroj]

Thanks, folks!

 

[ChocolateMouse]

Depends on what you're using it for. I like to use a dusting of it under the bedding in my coop and rabbit cages. It helps prevent sticking so cleaning is easier and and I do see a lesser number of bugs in the bedding when I clean it out as a result. I also think it helps with odors. I also put it in deep corners and between boards and such where bugs like to crawl but otherwise it's undisturbed.

As an aerosol it can be dangerous. But so can sand and flour and charcoal and poultry dust and dirt dust in general. Are these pets or are they to be eaten and replaced regularly? If the latter, then you probably won't notice any health issues from the use of it since it's a long term exposure thing.

DE will effect ANY insects. So I only use it where it won't be disturbed or I want none.

It's used as an anti-caking agent and to help control invasive bugs in animal feed commercially. A tiny bit is probably in every bag of feed you've ever bought.

 

[Trevorusn]

I tried DE for smell control, and PDZ in that aspect is far superior. As for mite control, it seems to be a coin toss at best, which means it's not really a reliable say all for mites. If you sprinkle it, do it with empty coops and good ventilation, otherwise as stated earlier it can lead to respiratory issues in both you and your flock.