White Bugs Covering Baby Chicks - Asking for an Out-of-State Friend

[Atlchick]

I'm asking this for an chicken-friend in another state, and I haven't seen the bugs or chicks but I'm trying to help figure out her best treatment.

She bought a few chicks from someone locally whose home/farm was far from ideal. After getting the chicks home she noticed little white bugs crawling all over the chicks. I suggested that she dust them with "Sevin" or DE. Her local feed supply store suggested DE. She says that some of the chicks are actually covered with these bugs, and when she tried to 'scrape' all the bugs off the fuzz came off it's head.

Her question is should she just douse the chicks really good with DE, or go with Sevin? I think Sevin is the route to take. Or is there something else I should suggest she try?

Thanks for your help in advance.

 

[rungirl]

I'd use Sevin. DE is supposedly used to prevent insect infestation. Sevin will actually kill the bugs and it won't hurt the chicks.

Lisa

 

[Sir Birdaholic]

Sevin dust. DE isn't near as good for getting rid of mites, but is a good preventative once the infestation is taken care of.

 

[Miss Lydia]

I've seen some on hear recommend putting the sevin in an old sock and dusting that way, what ever she decides to do tell her to be careful not to get the dust in their eyes or faces.

 

[MuranoFarms]

Sevin.

Some vitamins in their water would be a good idea too.

Edited to add: don't forget it will need redone in 7-10 days!