"Wormguard Plus with Flax"... anyone use this product?

[SeaChick]

Here is a really good article about chicken worms by Dail Damerow

http://www.backyardpoultrymag.com/issues/1/1-6/Gail_Damerow.html

 

[LindaN]

Thanks, SeaChick. That is a great article. I think I read it in the print copy and it may have been what made me think I don't have too much to worry about in regards to worms.

Since my hens were "clean" when I got them, seems like tape worms are of most concern since they can be carried by "their avian relatives" (e.g. wild birds that pass by). I don't see any birds actually IN the yard where the chickens hang out, but that doesn't mean they don't leave droppings as they fly by or stop for a few minutes.

It's also interesting to note that chickens that eat animal protein sources are more resistent to worm infestations. Sort of a catch-22, eh? A main source of "animal protein" is bugs (or maybe that's not is meant by animal protein?), yet bugs can be intermediate hosts, too.

My hens get most of their protein from their feed at this time of year since there are no insects in the yard in winter. Guess I'm justified in giving them a little "animal protein" treat every once in a while, then.