i have 4 hens in a small coop/outdoor run, in western maryland. should i be worming them, spraying the coop, and dusting the birds as a preventive to any pests, or do i just enjoy their goood health and be prepared to spraywormdust when there's a need to do so? thanks
Hi, Many people use DE (Diatomatious Earth) in the bedding, litter, dustbath, etc. as a preventative for lice, fleas, and insects on the birds and in their environment. Totally non-toxic. You can dust with it also. Most will recommend food grade DE to be sure it's safe. Never the stuff they use for swimming pools or other such commercial applications.
Quote:I would say treat as problems arise. I have had chickens for about 7 years and never had parasites, so I have never treated them. I thoroughly clean the coop a couple/three times a year. It has been suggested several times that these parasites are more of a problem in warmer climates. I don't know if that is true. Imp
