Mia Patel
Mites are a common issue for chicken owners, and there are several methods for treating them. One popular method is to use mite powder, such as Sevin Dust, to dust the chickens and their bedding. Other treatments include diatomaceous earth, wood ash, and insecticides such as permethrin and ivermectin. It is important to treat all chickens and their environment to prevent reinfestation, and some treatments may need to be repeated to catch any newly hatched mite eggs. While powders are effective, sprays are often preferred as they reduce the risk of inhalation for both chickens and owners.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common treatments for mites in chickens | Sevin dust, Pyrethrin, Permethrin, Diatomaceous Earth, mineral oil, wood ash, oregano oil, sulphur powder, Permectrin II Spray, Poultry Dust, Xeno, ivermectin |
| How to apply Sevin dust | Hold the chicken upside down and powder them, ensuring the dust doesn't fall off their backs. Dust the bedding, laying boxes, and dust bath areas. |
| Risks of Sevin dust | Toxic to vertebrates, including humans, and is labelled as a likely carcinogen by the EPA. Can be easily inhaled and may exacerbate existing health conditions. |
| How often to apply | Dust the chickens every 7-10 days, as this is the time it takes for external parasite eggs to hatch. Repeat dusting if necessary. |
| Alternative treatments | Sprays, such as Permectrin II, are preferred by some due to less inhalation hazard and less mess. Wood ash and Diatomaceous Earth can be used for chickens to take dust baths in. |
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What You'll Learn
How to identify mites on chickens
Mites are tiny external parasites that can infest chickens. They spread through direct contact, often from wild birds, and can live on or off their host. There are several types of mites that affect chickens, including Northern fowl mites, poultry red mites, and scaly leg mites.
Northern Fowl Mites
Northern fowl mites are dark in colour and have eight legs. They are extremely tiny and can barely be seen with the naked eye. They are most common in cooler, northern regions. They can live on chickens and in coops, and they feed on chicken blood.
Poultry Red Mites
Poultry red mites are red after a blood meal but can otherwise vary in appearance. They are also tiny and can be mistaken for dirt. They hide in the coop during the day and feed on chickens at night, so it is best to check for them after dark with a flashlight. They crawl up a chicken's legs to feed on the unscaled skin. You may see redness from bite marks or even the mites themselves.
Scaly Leg Mites
Scaly leg mites are not visible to the naked eye but can be diagnosed by examining the feet and legs of chickens. They cause raised and clogged scales that may be oozing out keratin. The chicken may try to relieve the irritation by preening or pecking at its legs.
Identifying Mite Infestations
Mites are often difficult to see, but a chicken with an infestation will show signs of stress such as increased preening, head scratching, and feather pecking. Plumage may be damaged from frequent preening, with feathers losing their shine and appearing tattered. Mites may also be visible in small groups when cleaning the coop or moving equipment.
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The dangers of mite powder
Mite powder can be an effective treatment for mites on chickens. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers associated with its use. One of the main risks is inhalation, which can be harmful to both chickens and humans. Mite powders, such as Sevin powder or garden dust, are fine powders that can be easily inhaled, exacerbating existing respiratory conditions such as asthma and posing a serious health risk.
Additionally, some mite powders contain chemicals that can be toxic to both vertebrates and invertebrates. For example, Carbaryl, an active ingredient in Sevin powder, is labelled as a likely carcinogen by the EPA and is highly toxic to aquatic invertebrates and pollinators like bees. While vertebrates can detoxify and eliminate Carbaryl, it is important to exercise caution when applying such products to chickens and their surroundings.
Another concern is the potential for chemical residue to remain on the chickens' feathers and be transferred to their eggs. In some cases, chickens treated with chemical products must be isolated, and their eggs must not be consumed for a period after treatment. This can be inconvenient and impact the productivity of chicken farmers, especially those relying on egg sales.
Furthermore, while mite powders may be effective in the short term, they do not address the underlying causes of mite infestations. Mites thrive in certain environmental conditions, such as moisture, dust, and mould. Therefore, it is essential to implement preventative measures, such as providing chickens with an appropriate area to dust bathe, regularly cleaning coops and bedding, and controlling rodent populations to reduce the risk of reinfestation.
Overall, while mite powder can be a quick solution to mite infestations in chickens, it is important to carefully consider the potential dangers to both the chickens and the environment before use. It is always recommended to consult with a veterinarian or poultry specialist to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.
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Alternatives to mite powder
Mite powder, such as Sevin dust, is a popular treatment for mites in chickens. However, some people are uncomfortable with chemically dusting their chickens. Here are some alternatives to mite powder:
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
DE is a popular alternative to mite powder. It is a mechanical pesticide that works by abrading and dehydrating pests. It is often used in commercial feeds as an anti-caking agent. However, DE can be hazardous to inhale due to the presence of crystalline silica, which can irritate the lungs and exacerbate pre-existing respiratory conditions. It is important to wear a mask and avoid creating clouds of DE powder.
Pyrethrin or Permethrin
Pyrethrin and Permethrin are effective treatments for chicken mites. They are available as sprays, which some people find safer and easier to use than powders, as they reduce the risk of inhalation. Permethrin is also available in plastic strips called No Mite Strips, which can be hung near or on the roosts.
Wood Ashes
Spreading cured wood ashes on the floor of the chicken coop can help control mites. The chickens will dust bathe in the ashes, which contain lye, helping to control the mites and lice.
Mineral Oil
For scaly leg mites, which crawl up the chicken's legs and lay eggs between the scales, mineral oil can be used to suffocate the mites. The chicken's legs are covered in a thick oil, such as olive or mineral oil, though some people also use Vaseline.
Natural Remedies
Some people prefer to use natural remedies to prevent mites, such as oregano oil, clove oil, or cinnamon oil. However, once an infestation occurs, it may be necessary to use more aggressive treatments.
It is important to note that before starting any chicken mite treatment, it is crucial to confirm that your flock has mites through a Chicken Health Exam.
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How to apply mite powder
Mite powder is an effective way to treat mites on chickens. However, it is important to take precautions when using mite powder, as it can be harmful to both chickens and humans if inhaled. When applying mite powder, always wear a mask and avoid creating clouds of powder. Be sure to read the instructions on the product label and use gloves during application. It is also important to treat all chickens in the flock, not just the infested individuals, to prevent the spread of mites.
To apply mite powder, start by isolating heavily infested birds to prevent the spread of mites to other chickens. Prepare a dust bath area by filling a container with diatomaceous earth, fine sand, and/or wood ash. You can also add food-grade diatomaceous earth to their feed, which will help to repel mites. Hold each chicken over the dust bath area and gently roll the feathers back to expose the mites. Use your hand or a small brush to apply the mite powder directly to the chicken's skin, feathers, and vent area. Be sure to coat the chicken thoroughly, especially in areas where mites are concentrated, such as the legs and vent. Hold the chicken upside down for a few seconds after powdering to prevent the dust from falling off. Release the chicken and allow it to shake off any excess powder. Repeat this process for all chickens in the flock.
In addition to treating the chickens, it is important to treat their environment as well. Apply mite powder generously to the coop, roosts, nesting boxes, and bedding. You can also mix diatomaceous earth with their bedding and spread it on the ground in their run. If using a liquid solution or spray, be sure to remove the chickens from the coop before application and allow adequate ventilation.
It is recommended to treat for mites initially and then repeat the treatment within 10 days to catch any newly hatched mite eggs. Regular dust baths and access to herbs such as chamomile, garlic, and thyme can help prevent future mite infestations. Additionally, increasing your chicken's iron intake during an infestation can help prevent anemia.
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Aftercare and prevention
Aftercare:
- After dusting your chickens with mite powder, it is important to repeat the treatment within 10 days to catch any hatched eggs and break the mite life cycle.
- If the infestation persists, consider using a different treatment method or consult a veterinarian for advice.
- Monitor your chickens for any signs of discomfort or physical differences, as mites can cause itching and skin issues.
- Ensure that neither you nor your chickens inhale the mite powder, as it can be harmful to respiratory health.
- Clean and disinfect the chicken coop and nesting boxes to remove any remaining mites or eggs.
Prevention:
- Provide your chickens with a dust bath year-round. Fill a kiddie pool or tub with dry dirt, sand, wood ash, and dried herbs like lavender, rosemary, thyme, mint, and chamomile. Chickens will naturally dust bathe, helping to control mites and lice.
- Add dried herbs to your chicken's feed or scatter fresh herbs in their coop. Herbs such as lavender, rosemary, thyme, mint, and chamomile can help reduce mite attraction and provide health benefits to your flock.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or lime on the floor of the coop, in nesting boxes, and on roosts. Diatomaceous earth is a natural pesticide that can help control mites, while lime also helps control ammonia levels in the coop.
- Feed your chickens garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, or probiotics to support their immune and digestive systems, making them more resilient against mites.
- Restrict access to your chicken's feed supply by using a covered run and removing feeders while your hens forage. This helps prevent wild birds and rodents, which can carry mites, from accessing the food.
- Change bedding regularly, as mites and lice thrive in old bedding. Consider using pest-repellent bedding, such as hemp bedding, to make your coop less hospitable to mites.
- Keep your coop clean and well-maintained, removing any cracks or crevices where pests can hide.
- Regularly inspect your chickens for any signs of mites or lice, such as discomfort or itching. Early detection makes treatment easier and prevents infestations.
By following these aftercare and prevention measures, you can effectively manage and prevent chicken mites, keeping your flock healthy and happy.
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Frequently asked questions
Mites are tiny and quick, but when you roll the feathers back, you'll see them running to get out of the light. They are also likely to be everywhere—on your hands, crawling on your eggs, and the chickens will be itching constantly.
Sevin Dust, also known as Sevin Powder or garden dust, is a popular product for treating mite infestations in poultry. It is a fine powder that contains Carbaryl, which is toxic to vertebrates and invertebrates.
Sevin Dust can be sprinkled on the chicken's back, tail, and under their tail and fluffed into the feathers. It can also be used to dust the coop, nest boxes, and their dust bath areas.
Yes, there are several alternatives to Sevin Dust for treating mites in chickens. These include:
- Pyrethrin or Permethrin sprays
- Diatomaceous Earth powder
- Mineral oil or olive oil for scaly leg mites
- Wood ashes for dust bathing
- Predatory mites
