Do I have to worry about lice and mites

[The Zoo]

If my hens are only in my backyard where there have never been chickens before? It's a smallish backyard and the only other animals that go back there are the dogs, cats and probably a sporadic raccoon (very sporadic).
I live in the Bay Area - my neighbor across the street who has a flock of 18 hens has never had a problem.

 

[Judy]

In a word, yes. They can be brought in by wild birds.

Just check them at night while on the roost periodically. Your friend may have them and not realize it. The chickens can get near death before you know they are present if you do not check for them, or at least do some preventive care with something like DE.

 

[The Zoo]

How do I check them? What do I look for?
Thanks for the help!

 

[Imp]

Hi The Zoo,
Here's a link that will help. Good luck.

Imp

http://ohioline.osu.edu/vme-fact/0018.html