Topic of the Week - Lice and Mites - Prevention and Treatments

[casportpony]

Permethrin works best for mites and lice

True!

-Kathy

 

[EggSighted4Life]

I sprayed everything with permethrin before I installed the birds it is good for 6 months
When I build me new coop this summer I will spray the whole inside every crevice with permethrin and let it dry well before the birds move in

I wouldn't think you would need to spray if building with all new materials.

 

[casportpony]

Quote: I think permethrin has a residual effect, so it's not a bad idea.

-Kathy

 

[stellagirl]

Do you actually spray the Permethrin on the chickens? I've been using it inside the coop and around the perimeter for ant control but have been very cautious about spraying it around my birds. I guess I thought it would hurt them. How wonderful if I can spray them down as well!

 

[casportpony]

Do you actually spray the Permethrin on the chickens? I've been using it inside the coop and around the perimeter for ant control but have been very cautious about spraying it around my birds. I guess I thought it would hurt them. How wonderful if I can spray them down as well!

When mixed at 20 ml per gallon, yes, spray the bird.

-Kathy

 

[Folly's place]

Spray lightly; it doesn't take much! And it's very easy at night, when you can spray the roosts and the chickens all at the same time, without disturbing them. Wonderful! Mary

 

[stellagirl]

Thank you both! I will go out tonight and do it-I have a gallon mixed in a fine mist sprayer ready to go!

 

[rottlady]

I wouldn't think you would need to spray if building with all new materials.

prevention it lasts a good long time

We had to spray a house we rented every 6 months inside to battle the clothes moths the landlady gifted us that wanted to eat all our taxidermy mounts. It was good for 6 months indoors

 

[poodlechicks]

Can someone comment on the efficacy of applying Vaseline to legs for scaly leg mites?
Thank you

 

[AmberSchmieg83]

We had a problem with lice, and unfortunately it killed one of our hens before we really knew what was wrong. Our cousin had told us about (food grade) Diatomaceous Earth and how much it had helped her chickens and with keeping her coop pest free. We bought a bag and it was one of the best investments we have made. Twice a year or so, we individually dust down each bird and get it down into their feathers. We also mix it with dirt for them to dust bathe in. And each time we clean out the coop, we sprinkle it on top of the shavings, and in the nesting boxes. We haven't had problems since and our birds are healthier and their combs have brightened up. I would recommend it highly!