Mites??? Advice needed!

[mariathesilkie]

I'm in need of advice on what I think is some sort of mite infestation. We have six lovely silkies, two of which are currently broody. Everyday when I collect the eggs from under them, I have noticed the eggs have lots of tiny little bugs (probably under 1mm in size and kind of red/brown in colour) actively running all over them. I gave the hen house a good clean out yesterday and these bugs were EVERYWHERE! The hens themselves seem fine and look in good condition. I'm sure there are lots of forums on here about how to deal with these critters, but as I'm not sure what these are I'm hoping someone can point me in the right direction. I'm just hoping for a positive confirmation as to what these bugs are - are they mites? If so, what sort of mites? What is the best method of getting rid of them? Do they bite humans? If someone could answer my questions or point me towards a forum that would, I would be so appreciative.

 

[mariathesilkie]

I should also add I am in Victoria, Australia where we have had a lot of hot, dry weather lately. I don't know if that makes any difference. Cheers

 

[Polishpal]

Try going to a local livestock store or co opp, they will most likely have mite dust and sprinkle it on your girlys backs and rub it in. The mites should go away, I have this problem with my silkies so I always have mite dust on hand

 

[Michael Apple]

In the states, we have a product called Ravap EC (emulsified concentrate) which is my favored insecticide. It contains Rabon and Vapona. Permethrin concentrates work well too. The mites you mentioned sound like red Chicken Mites or Northern Fowl Mites. When you treat the coop area, remove everything including dust and spray all cracks, crevices, roosts (all sides), nests, walls, and floor to runoff. Do it every three to four months when you clean out your coops. Look for any wild bird nests near your yard or coop. Sometimes those are breeding grounds for mites. Check your birds feather chutes around the vent and under wings for mites regularly.