Red lice, chicken fleas... how to eliminate them?
Several parasites can attack chickens. These include mites, worms, red lice and fleas. These suck their blood, weaken them and make them vulnerable to viral diseases. To get rid of them, you can use the following tips.
What are red lice and chicken fleas?
Red lice and hen fleas are enemies of backyard animals. The red louse is a mite that feeds on the blood of hens. It is the nymphs that bite the most. They proliferate rapidly, laying 200 to 300 eggs per week during warm periods. They hide from the light and start biting at night.
The chicken flea is an insect that also sucks the blood of your birds. It lives and develops in the litter of the hen house before climbing onto the hens and sucking them.
How to recognize red lice or chicken fleas?
To be sure that there are red lice and fleas in the hen house, you should notice the following signs. Your animals are attacked by red lice or fleas if their general condition deteriorates or if they become weak. You may also see your hen's crest turn white and her feathers fall out. You will also see bite marks on their skin. On the other hand, the hen will scratch frequently and will refuse to enter the henhouse. If you see these signs, it is time to eradicate these parasites.
What are the risks?
The bites of red lice and fleas are very dangerous for chickens. These parasites will destroy the health of your chickens. Indeed, their bite will cause anaemia in your hens. As a result, they will become weak. They are therefore very susceptible to disease.
Also, when these parasites suck the blood of your hen, she will feel itchy. This will disturb her sleep. As a result, she will be tired and this can lead to a decrease in her immune system.
On the other hand, the itching, lack of sleep and fatigue will increase the hen's stress. This will slow down its heart rate, or even stop it. Moreover, if the infestation is very serious, the most fragile and youngest hens may lose their lives.
How to eliminate them?
There are several ways of eliminating red lice and fleas from hens. For example, you can empty the hen house. To do this, you need to isolate the sick chickens. Then you should clean the house thoroughly with a hoover and a high-pressure cleaner. Make sure you target every corner: walls, floors, ceilings, etc. Don't forget to burn the litter and replace it with new litter. You can then use anti-lice products to prevent their return.
Where can I find products to eliminate them?
There are many products available to treat red lice or fleas. Insecticides and sprays can be found in pet shops or ordered directly online.
What are the natural remedies?
The natural remedy for red lice and chicken fleas is diatomaceous earth. To do this, sprinkle the wings and feathers of your birds with this natural insecticide. Also pour the powders over the nest and the various cracks. You can also use wood ash. Pour it under the wings and feathers of each hen.
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