diatomaceous earth

[kenp719]

Hey all!

We are looking into the deep litter method for our coop, I know DE is is not recommended if we go this route. I’m assuming adding DE to their dust baths also wouldn’t be a good idea. Are there any other things we can add to the dust bath to repel any unwanted pests?

 

[Folly's place]

Most of us want to monitor the birds, and treat parasites if they turn up, rather than using products to try to prevent them. Having a flock indoors and away from any wild bird contact works, but we like the birds outside, either ranging, or in protected runs, so there is wild bird contact.
DE and wood ashes may help in the dust baths inside, realizing that this isn't a cure, and does involve breathing bad stuff too. I don't want any insecticide outside, so maybe in an indoor dust bath, but not out there for bees to risk exposure.
I use permethrin in the coop whenever there's a mite problem, and sprinkle some of it in the nest boxes under the bedding.
You could go years before having mites or lice out there, or have them often.
Mary

 

[aart]

I'd skip the DE altogether.
Unless you get grain mites in your feed during summer, it does work for that.

Just good plain dirt is fine for dust baths, if they have good outdoor access they'll show you where the best place to dust bathe is.

Check for external parasite regularly, have permethrin dust and/or spray on hand in case you find some.


My Bug Check notes:
Have you checked them over real well for mites and/or lice?

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).

Good post about mite ID by Lady McCamley:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/my-chicken-has-mites-now-what.1273674/page-2#post-20483008

 

[kenp719]

Most of us want to monitor the birds, and treat parasites if they turn up, rather than using products to try to prevent them. Having a flock indoors and away from any wild bird contact works, but we like the birds outside, either ranging, or in protected runs, so there is wild bird contact.
DE and wood ashes may help in the dust baths inside, realizing that this isn't a cure, and does involve breathing bad stuff too. I don't want any insecticide outside, so maybe in an indoor dust bath, but not out there for bees to risk exposure.
I use permethrin in the coop whenever there's a mite problem, and sprinkle some of it in the nest boxes under the bedding.
You could go years before having mites or lice out there, or have them often.
Mary

Thank you!