Ick, it took a few years, but I finally had a visit from the Mite Fairy in my flock--discovered mites while checking on a broody hen, and upon further inspection of the flock, found the little beasts on a few other birds. Of course, this means I have to treat my entire flock, which numbers more than 200 birds and is a task on its own, but there is another problem... About a dozen or so members of my flock have gone feral and roost in trees far out of my reach. I can't catch them during the day, and I can't reach them at night, making application of the ivermectin almost impossible.
Ideally, I would like to apply the ivermectin directly to the skin, but will it work if I put it in their water instead? I may not be able to catch the feral chickens, but they drink the same water all of the other birds do. If ivermectin in the water is effective, that may be the only way I'm able to treat them. If not, well... I guess I better find a really tall ladder and overcome my fear of heights.
I welcome the input of more experienced poultry owners.
Ideally, I would like to apply the ivermectin directly to the skin, but will it work if I put it in their water instead? I may not be able to catch the feral chickens, but they drink the same water all of the other birds do. If ivermectin in the water is effective, that may be the only way I'm able to treat them. If not, well... I guess I better find a really tall ladder and overcome my fear of heights.
I welcome the input of more experienced poultry owners.
