Mites and Lice

[frogman]

Are these pests inevitable?? My hens are only 2mon old and are now out in the coop/run. Should I be doing something preventive? Or just be on the look out constantly. I use sand on the floor in the coop, grass clippings in the run (will soon be changing to sand also). If I have a dust bath available will that prevent them?? Thanks.

 

[eviemethugh]

Dust bath helps. We have had chickens for 5 years and never had mites or lice (knock on wood) keeping their litter dry is super important. But if you go to a feed store I'm sure they will be happy to sell you something.

 

[frogman]

Thanks that's encouraging.

 

[Folly's place]

Mites and lice arrive with the wild birds, so unless you have birds completely indoors, sooner or later they will appear. Dust baths help, and observation. It may be many years down the road for you, or next month. Check random birds at dark, with a flashlight, around the vent. Treat if necessary, and otherwise don't worry about it. Bad mite infestations can kill birds, not a good thing. Mary