New chicks in coop with previous mite problems

[ahoward]

Hello - We have not had hens on our property since October 2018. That group of hens had problems with mites for about a year, a year and a half prior.

Given it has been two winters (we live in Maine), about 1.5 years total since any hens have been here, is there any reason why I should not assume that there are no living mites in the coop? Anything else I can do to prevent mites this time? I have heard of whitewashing coop, appropriate dust baths, food supplements (maybe someone can share what they do for dustbaths - these hens will not be free range though we have a large run).

I totally cleaned out and washed the coop and this time am going to try the sand method.

- How deep of a layer of sand do you use? Do you mix in anything else, such as DE?
- Do you ever totally clean out the coop and remove all sand, and what do you do with the sand?
- Is sand ok for chicks?
- Do you have a dust bath area in your coop if you use sand? Or a dust bath area outside somewhere? I am thinking of using a kids turtle sandbox for a dust bath in their run.

Thanks for your help!

 

[Ihavesomechickens]

I would doubt there are still mites in their but just in case I would whitewash the inside with food grade DE. For dust bathing I mix dirt and sand in a 50/50 ratio and dump it in a hole in the run.

 

[Folly's place]

If wild birds have been in there, there could be mites. If it's truly been closed up and totally vacant, it should be fine.
If you are in doubt, spray it thoroughly with permethrin spray and have it dry out.
Mary