Oiling the roosts, what kind of oil?

[kathyinmo]

Do you oil your roosts? What kind of oil do you use? How often does it need done?

 

[patandchickens]

I don't.


Pat

 

[fancbrd4me02]

i think it's supposed to be motor oil

 

[patandchickens]

Quote:
Well, people used to use used motor oil before it was fully appreciated how bad it is for the groundwater and how carcinogenic it can be. It is really not a good idea though.

Linseed oil would be the traditional substance; or mineral oil. But a lot less was known back then about other ways of controlling mites, and a lot fewer other options existed for minimizing rotting of wood. Honestly I do not think it is usually pointful these days.

JMHO,

Pat

 

[Lollipop]

The reason for oiling roosts is to kill leg mites that hide in the openings and cracks in the wood. Do your birds have leg mites? Have you treated their legs for mites? In reality, any kind of oil will work, as the sole purpose is to drown the mites, whether it`s on the roost or the legs. Any kind, from WD40 to veggie oil, to used motor oil. Treat one, treat them all, but treat the legs about once a week til the legs look right, then only as needed.......Pop

 

[kathyinmo]

Quote:
No leg mites. I just want to clean out the coops, and wondered about oiling the roosts, as part of the process. I do have removable 2x4s for roosts, and planned to just replace them each year, as a precaution.

 

[CityChook]

I oil my roost. Makes them REALLY easy to clean. I suppose it would help with mites as well.

I use linseed oil, cut 50/50 with mineral spirits. The spirits helps the oil to absorb into the wood. You could use the oil straight, but it's sticky and quite messy. I paint it on with a disposable brush, let it sit for 15 minutes and wipe away any residual oil. I have been treating my teak patio furniture this exact same way for 12 years and it still looks as good as the day I bought it. Protects against water, cracking. Smells to high heaven and will stain concrete and kill your grass if spilled. Will take a day to dry completely but is relatively dry to the touch within an hour.

 

[kathyinmo]

Smells to high heaven and will stain concrete and kill your grass if spilled. Will take a day to dry completely but is relatively dry to the touch within an hour.

If it smells ... won't that bother the poultry? I mean, I know they have a sensitive respiratory system.​

 

[BoiseBubba]

Oregano oil

 

[Sissy]

I have used veggie..oil on a cloth
and just wiped down the Roost
I have never seen mites.and I do check
their feathered rumps every so often,
I also use stall dry all the time,
in their dusting box.