Mites - what should I do about my broody

[pipples]

Hi there - I have a broody silkie sitting on a clutch. i noticed yesterday that there are a few of the little mites crawling around in the coop. Usually I would spray but I don't want to harm her or the eggs. Any advice? I don't want her to be too disturbed as we lost her sister recently (she zoned out sitting on her eggs and I think she starved herself) and so I am really taking care of this one who has taken over the incubation for me.

 

[Ridgerunner]

If you know you have mites, you need to treat for mites. They are a real danger to a broody hen in her weakened condition. I would not spray the eggs directly but I would certainly treat.

 

[pipples]

Thanks

What do you think of me removing her from the coop for a while to get some food and water and while she is out giving it a really good spray with the eggs covered up. Will the eggs be OK for 15 mins or so while the spray dries? I've ordered some DE and some sand off the internet to put in there for her to bathe in but will that harm the eggs?

 

[Judy]

The eggs will be fine. Broodies often leave them longer than 15 minutes during their daily eat/drink/poop outing.

 

[pipples]

Thanks everyone - I'll be spraying the coop when I get home from work

 

[pipples]

Oh well - I think the disruption unsettled her and she was up and about this morning and the eggs were cool. Oh well at least if she stops being broody, I can cure the pest problem.

Thanks alot

p