Hello BYC Friends, I have a small flock of almost 2 years hens. I have never wormed. I live in Upstate NY, where it gets very cold. Couple of questions: 1) Can worms effect egg production? I am getting very few eggs daily and probably coming from my two new girls. Some girls have not laid in several months? Is that normal? 2) I have read that Cayenne Pepper can be used as natural wormer. What are your thoughts of mixing cayenne pepper into yogurt? Do you use gound pepper or flakes? 3) If I use this method, do I repeat daily for life? Thanks!
I hope this helps: https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?pid=2525157#p2525157 https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=226143
There are not any "organic" wormers--if you have worms, you will have to go to a chemical to get rid of them. There are several products that are reputed to help keep worms at bay--such as DE, pumpkin seeds, acv, verm-ex, etc... I would keep a really close eye on their poo for a while and see if you see anything. If you still suspect worms, take a composite (several poo) sample to the vet and get a fecal float done. This will help you determine what you might have, and if so, what wormer to use as they are for the most part specific. The second year many hens will take some time off laying, so that is not at all unusual.
my hens took a break too because of a molt and now they are back stronger then ever. it could be worms molting shorter days have you changed feed? as for worming... I agree with chookchick look at the poo... (I am an avid poo looker...lol) I try and prevent worms with DE , garlic, and pumpkin seeds
