general chicken maintenance

[woodlumn]

hi there,

I would greatly appreciate it if some of you pros could please share info (or links) on routine checking of flock for things like mite, lice, scales, etc. I've read about all of these things on BYC, but I'm unclear on what to look for or how often I should be checking. The birds are new to me so I haven't figured out how to catch, hold, and inspect them yet. Any tips on where to get started here would be so helpful.

thank you!

 

[Lesa]

Best to get your birds used to you, first. If they are chicks, obviously, you can just reach in and grab them. Most birds of laying age will squat for you, when you are near them and then you can pick them up- by holding their wings close to their bodies...don't let them flap. Birds are extremely calm and quiet on the roost - so a flashlight inspection can be useful. Once you know your chickens you will be able to recognize if they are not well. I always take a visual as everyone comes up for a treat, or when exiting the coop door. You'll get the hang of it. Enjoy!

 

[woodlumn]

thanks, Lesa