Mites vs Preening

[Shawn's_momma]

I'm a new chicken owner and it looks like my birds are always sticking their heads in feathers and scratching. I haven't seen mites/lice, but they are small. Is it normal for chickens to itch themselves? There are also no bald spots or missing feathers.

Thanks!

 

[sassysarah]

Yes, all hens do! including mine! Most chickens have lice or mites

 

[Folly's place]

Chickens are busy grooming (preening) their feathers, essential for their health. It looks a lot like a bird going after biting insects, so look for the nasty bugs too. At night, with a flashlight, look around their vents, on the backs, and necks, at skin level, and treat everyone if any mites or lice are found. I have zero tolerance! A 'minor' infestation can turn into disaster in a short time. Mary