How do you treat a coop for mites?

[Charleen's R Hen]

Hello! I have 3 hens who will not go into their coop at night. I do not believe there is a predator problem, but have read about mites causing this sort of behavior. Do you have any suggestions?

Thank you!

Marilee

 

[sadiejane]

Any time we've ever had a problem with mites we've dusted everything in diatomaceous earth, including the chickens. It's a white powder you can buy pretty cheap at just about any co-op. It's basically ground coral. Completely safe for humans and animals. The powder works like fiberglass on small insects and grinds up their insides. We've even put it in puppy food as a supplement to dog wormer. You just have to make sure to dust all your chickies and the roost down well.