MITES?

[nhorrin]

Hens are taking lots of dirt bathes and preaning each other. I'm thinking mites. If this is the case what is the best method to get rid of them? Thanks

 

[HenHouse4Life]

If you think you have a mite infestation I would suggest permethrin 10. Dilute the solution per directed and spray roosts, coop, everywhere.... take out all old bedding and replace with new. Permethrin can be used every 7-10 days x3 weeks. Safe on poultry also. DE is a preventative that some like to add to dust baths.
Chickens taking a dust bath is natural and normal so inspect your birds for mites or lice to be sure.

 

[aart]

They do that to prevent mites and lice, and will do so whether they have them or not.

But you should regularly examine your birds for signs of external parasites, if you find some get dust or spray with permethrin in it.


Google images of lice/mites and their eggs before the inspection so you'll know what you're looking for.

Part the feathers right down to the skin around vent, head/neck and under wings.

Best done well after dark with a strong flashlight/headlight, easier to 'catch' bird and also to check for the mites that live in structure and only come out at night to feed off roosting birds.

Wipe a white paper towel along the underside of roost to look for red smears(smashed well fed mites).

 

[HenHouse4Life]

there is also a powder, can be purchased at TSC