What can I use in replace of DE?

[Annalyse]

I heard DE isn't good for you or your flock but also doesn't really keep pests out so My question is what can I use to replace DE? I just want to use something for their dustbath/coop.

 

[MysteryChicken]

I heard DE isn't good for you or your flock but also doesn't really keep pests out so My question is what can I use to replace DE? I just want to use something for their dustbath/coop.

Permethrin dust.

 

[Annalyse]

Permethrin dust.

I think I have that because I thought my rooster had scaley leg mites.

 

[MysteryChicken]

I think I have that because I thought my rooster had scaley leg mites.

Okay, good.

 

[Meg-in-MT]

Do your chickens have mites? I wouldn't use permethrin if they don't. Soft dirt or dirt/sand mix is just fine for a dust bath.

 

[Annalyse]

Do you chickens have mites? I wouldn't use permethrin if they don't. Soft dirt or dirt/sand mix is just fine for a dust bath.

I was using peat moss and DE. I was thinking to throw some lavender in the coop for a natural repellent

 

[Meg-in-MT]

I was using peat moss and DE. I was thinking to throw some lavender in the coop for a natural repellent

I can't say that'll help with mites or lice, but it certainly won't hurt anything! It'll look pretty and smell nice How many chickens do you have?

 

[3KillerBs]

If the chickens don't actually have body parasites you don't need to treat them.

Just give them ordinary dirt to dust in and they'll be happy.

If the chickens DO actually have body parasites the birds and coops need to be treated with the appropriate pesticide.

 

[Annalyse]

I can't say that'll help with mites or lice, but it certainly won't hurt anything! It'll look pretty and smell nice How many chickens do you have?

They dont have any mites or lice as far as I know but I have 7 in total. 6 girls and one handsome rooster. Since spring is coming up I just want to be prepared and figure out what I can do to keep any of those red tiny mites out of the coop and chickens. I've seen the before not by the coop. I just want to make sure none of my flock members are getting anything

 

[Alaskan]

Some say that some wood ash in the dust bath can help reduce parasites.

Permethrin is excellent to kill parasites but should only be used when you know you have parasites...a cure so it should not be used as a preventative, only as a cure.