Mite infestation

[raingarden]

Mites can seem to appear out of nowhere. Many wild birds carry a low number of mites or other ectoparasites but keep them in check through an immune response, scratching, dust bathing and other personal hygiene. You have to wonder if many chickens also live happily with a few mites. If there are only a few they may be occasionally felt but seldom an obvious problem.

But, if the bird has other issues like a low-grade microbial infection, weakened immune system, genetic predisposition, setting on a clutch, strss or whatever, can the mite population be suddenly given the opportuity to explode? Something similar occurs in humans with Scabies mites and other parasitic infestations

I could not confirm whether or not this is true for chicken mites through a quick search. If it were true though, what should the chicken-keeper response be? Should we do more proactive prophilactic treatments, provide better sanitation, improve nutrition, improve their standard of living, all of the above, what?

 

[dirtbagchickens]

martins permethrin 13.3 . https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/control-solutions-permethrin-133-32-oz
1.5oz per gallon, spray everything. i mean everything and every chicken. Spray every two two weeks for a few months then every month. I change the nest box and rake the floor of the coop/indoor run (6x14) once a month.
I dip/bathe my chickens the first hot spring day. I mix permethrin, medicated tail and mane in salt water. after they dry off some i oil their feet and comb with coconut oil. Happy chicken lay big eggs.

does using permethrin require a respite from consuming any eggs?

 

[Wyorp Rock]

does using permethrin require a respite from consuming any eggs?

There is no withdrawal period for Permethrin based poultry dust or spray if you follow the manufacturer's instructions on the label.