Poultry Red Mite Control
Top Tips for Controlling Red Mite in Poultry
Control of red mite in poultry is critical as even relatively small mite populations can have a significant impact on bird welfare and operation productivity.
- Red mite powders and liquids are effective repellent combinations to be applied to poultry as a proactive on-bird deterrent to infestation or to rectify an existing problem
- The best time to treat the birds is during the evening, because red mite are nocturnal and so feed on the birds as they roost at night
- Do not apply to birds under seven days old, and apply sparingly to small birds
- A red mite infestation may cause eggs to be stained red with crushed mites or mite faeces, a decrease in egg production or pale coloured yokes
- The risks of red mite infestation can be reduced by a complete and effective farm hygiene programme