Suspected fleas ,bugs

[Galway Girl]

I recently had to cut down a large Ficus for various reasons ,that literally had thousands of dead leaves stuck in it. I had Racoons hanging out and wanted them gone. I thought the dead leaves would be great in my girls play yard so I scattered 6 trash cans full. Now I'm bitten up every time I'm out there. Could that be the reason and what can I use that will not harm them? I've put diatromaceous earth all over but am bit up every day. I live near the ocean in Huntington Beach , California.

 

[Little Chicken Girl]

I recently had to cut down a large Ficus for various reasons ,that literally had thousands of dead leaves stuck in it. I had Racoons hanging out and wanted them gone. I thought the dead leaves would be great in my girls play yard so I scattered 6 trash cans full. Now I'm bitten up every time I'm out there. Could that be the reason and what can I use that will not harm them? I've put diatromaceous earth all over but am bit up every day. I live near the ocean in Huntington Beach , California.

Especially If raccoons liked hanging out in the tree, it could be fleas or mites. However, that is just a theory. I know fleas like costal areas...

I would take the leaves out definitely and burn/dispose of them (depending on your fire restrictions). You might want to try a natural bug repellent on top of that like Citronella spray or candles (again depending on fire restrictions in your area). You could also pick up a poultry approved insect repellent powder at your local farm/feed store. That might help.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

What is biting you - have you been able to see the critter? Mosquitoe, flea, etc.?

Check your chickens around the face,vent and under the wings for any bugs that look like fleas, lice, mites. You can treat the chickens with a Permethrin based poultry dust or spray - you should be able to use this as a perimeter spray as well, since it can be used to treat poultry housing, bedding and nesting boxes (follow the manufacturers instructions). You can also use Spinosad - you may have to order it online.

 

[Galway Girl]

Especially If raccoons liked hanging out in the tree, it could be fleas or mites. However, that is just a theory. I know fleas like costal areas...

I would take the leaves out definitely and burn/dispose of them (depending on your fire restrictions). You might want to try a natural bug repellent on top of that like Citronella spray or candles (again depending on fire restrictions in your area). You could also pick up a poultry approved insect repellent powder at your local farm/feed store. That might help.

Thanks so much ,I appreciate the help.

 

[Galway Girl]

What is biting you - have you been able to see the critter? Mosquitoe, flea, etc.?

Check your chickens around the face,vent and under the wings for any bugs that look like fleas, lice, mites. You can treat the chickens with a Permethrin based poultry dust or spray - you should be able to use this as a perimeter spray as well, since it can be used to treat poultry housing, bedding and nesting boxes (follow the manufacturers instructions). You can also use Spinosad - you may have to order it online.

I can't see or feel anything ,that's what is so strange to me . I just come in and have bites. I started stripping off all my clothes before I come in ,( luckily I have no one behind me ) and don't see anything. I did check the chickens ,but maybe need to do again. I'll try all suggestions and as always I appreciate everyone's help !

 

[Little Chicken Girl]

Thanks so much ,I appreciate the help.

I am glad to help in any way I can! (even if it is not much ) I hope that the bugs go away!