just found some type of flea thing on my chicks

[chicknadventure]

Hi. I just got a few babies (2 month olds) from a local breeder. The cages were VERY cramped and I was a little concerned about the cleanliness overall. However, I really wanted some specific chicks that she had, so I went ahead and got them.

That was 2 days ago.

Today, one of them flapped their wings, and I saw these tiny little bugs crawling under their wings. I wouldn't say they were "red" but maybe really light brown almost cream colored. And they are visible to the naked eye.

What is that, and how do I get rid of it? I don't have a heat lamp, thought my initial thought was a bath....HELP!

 

[teach1rusl]

Check this link out - you'll find it helpful: http://ohioline.osu.edu/vme-fact/0018.html

It's going to be lice or mites - I'd guess lice. But you'll know when you look at the pics. You can use ONE DROP of Frontline Plus (make sure it's on the skin, not feathers) or you can try Adams Flea/Tick spray. Many use Seven powder, but I've never had much luck with powders myself, and they're very messy to apply. If you spray, protect the face.
Makes you itchy all over just seeing those things, doesn't it...

 

[chicknadventure]

Check this link out - you'll find it helpful: http://ohioline.osu.edu/vme-fact/0018.html

It's going to be lice or mites - I'd guess lice. But you'll know when you look at the pics. You can use ONE DROP of Frontline Plus (make sure it's on the skin, not feathers) or you can try Adams Flea/Tick spray. Many use Seven powder, but I've never had much luck with powders myself, and they're very messy to apply. If you spray, protect the face.
Makes you itchy all over just seeing those things, doesn't it...

OMG I started scratching all over!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks-I've heard of mites but they don't sound like mites, I bet it turns out to be lice....GROSS! I run a daycare and we STILL haven't had a lice breakout

and we are ending our 3rd year (around 100 students)

 

[chicknadventure]

Yep, it's lice. Now I am ticked because my original flock was clean

 

[chicknadventure]

Will DE work to get rid of an infestation? Or do I need to do the frontline first, and THEN do the DE?

Also, can I use the DE on my dog?

 

[teach1rusl]

Food grade DE can be used on pets. However, I don't believe chicken lice will invade other species. Personally, I would not rely on DE to get rid of a lice infestation; others may disagree. I see it as a preventative (and do use it in my coops and in dust bathing areas)/repellent only. I would use a spray or drop. With one cat or dog dose you could treat a BUNCH of chickens, cause you only need a drop each. You will need to replace the bedding where they live, and I'd mix the DE in with the clean bedding. Wear a mask or kerchief over your face when you mix it in...

 

[chicknadventure]

thanks so much!

 

[wvgal61]

I am def. making a quarantine pen, for when i want to get different chicks or chickens!

And I think if I were you I would let the breeder know.

 

[chicknadventure]

I am def. making a quarantine pen, for when i want to get different chicks or chickens!

And I think if I were you I would let the breeder know.

I will def have a quarantine pen from now on. AND I am waiting for her call now

Not really that mad, but the smiley was too cute