The CH Guide to Parasites

What are they and what do they do??

Poultry mites live on the outside of a chicken and feed off its blood. They feed at night and hide during the day.

How can I tell if my chicken has them??

Look for these symptoms:

1. Feather loss

2. Scabs on legs and feet

3. Reluctance to roost

4. Pale combs and wattles

5. Smears of blood on legs

6. Fewer eggs than usual

How can I prevent poultry mites??

You can prevent poultry mites by spraying your chickens with bug spray (see the recipe below), encouraging them to dust bathe, or sprinkling some diatomaceous earth on the coop floor.