Mites and lice are common in backyard flocks. They can cause itching, feather loss, poor laying and, in some cases, anaemia. The good news is that most problems are treatable once you know what you're dealing with.
Red mite
Red mites are tiny, blood-sucking pests that hide in cracks in the coop during the day and come out at night.
Signs include:
- Hens that are restless or pecking themselves
- Pale combs and wattles
- Dark specks in nest boxes or on perches
- Lower egg production
Scaly leg mite
Scaly leg mites burrow under the scales on the legs and feet. The scales look raised, crusty or thick, and the legs may look rough or deformed. Treatment often needs a vet's advice and patience, because it takes time for the scales to return to normal.
Lice
Lice live on the feathers and skin. You may see them around the vent or under the wings. Feather loss and irritation are common signs.
What to spray and how to use it
Use a product labelled for poultry, and follow the label carefully. Check the withdrawal period before eating eggs or meat. Spray perches, nest boxes and coop cracks, not just the birds. Ask your vet if you're unsure.
Treatment works best when you do it alongside cleaning:
- Remove all bedding and clean the coop.
- Scrub perches and nest boxes, and let them dry.
- Treat the birds and the coop according to the label.
- Repeat the treatment as directed, because eggs may hatch after the first round.
Prevention
- Check your birds every week, especially the vent area and legs.
- Keep the coop dry and well ventilated.
- Quarantine new birds for a few weeks before introducing them.
- Use fresh bedding regularly.
Our catalogue doesn't currently list poultry mite sprays, so please check with your vet or a poultry supplier. You can browse the range at Easy Pets.