Possible mite problem

[The ChickenKing]

Hey all, just recently I've been seeing these small black aphid like bugs crawling everywhere in the coop, I'm thinking they're mites but I'm not sure. Now I've heard DE will help but I've also heard it's dangerous to humans and animals, so are these rumors true? And if they are, what are some healthy alternatives to it?

 

[lisameow]

My friend had chickens that had mites and they were a dark orangey/red colour and very, very small. So it is possible that the things you see are not mites. DE is only dangerous if it's inhaled so if you if use it carefully that shouldn't be a problem. Ive heard that garlic and certain essential oils can be used but i would research them very carefully as some essential oils can be dangerous in high amounts.