to spray/dust/worm or not--questions from a newbie

[ditto]

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

 

[CarolynF]

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.

 

[Imp]

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