Keep Chickens Naturally Healthy With Diatomaceous Earth
- Pets Natural Health Store Admin
- Mar 12, 2024
- 3 min read
Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in your chicken coop for a multitude of benefits!
Diatomaceous Earth (sometimes know as DE) is a natural powerhouse in the realm of poultry care, offering a multitude of benefits for chickens. This remarkable substance is derived from fossilised remains of algae-like water plants known as diatoms. People have been using diatomaceous earth in chicken coops for centuries (dating as far back as ancient China, Egypt and Greece!) to promote the health and well-being of their feathered friends.
Why Diatomaceous Earth is Good for Chickens
Diatomaceous earth serves as a versatile tool in chicken coop maintenance, offering the following benefits:
Natural, chemical-free parasite and pest control: Diatomaceous earth effectively combats common coop pests like mites and lice, keeping your chickens healthy and comfortable.
Improved egg production: Scientific studies have shown that DE supplementation in chicken diets can lead to larger eggs with more albumen, while also promoting stronger bones and overall growth.
Natural mineral supplementation: With its high levels of natural soluble silica, DE supports bone health and egg production, contributing to the vitality of your flock.
How to Use Diatomaceous Earth in Your Chicken Coop
Add to nesting areas
Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in nesting boxes, dust bathing areas, and along roosts to create a protective barrier against mites and lice. Use a 2:1 ratio of dirt to diatomaceous earth powder when dusting coop areas. The amount needed will depend on the size of your coop, but ensure thorough coverage of all surfaces where pests may reside.
Add to feed supplies
To keep bugs out of chicken feed supplies and help control gut parasites, you can add diatomaceous earth at a ratio of approximately 2% to 5% weight. This means for every pound of chicken feed, you would add about 0.32 to 0.8 ounces. However, it's essential to start with a lower amount and gradually increase it while monitoring for any adverse effects on your chickens. Additionally, ensure you're using food-grade DE so you don't expose your chickens to any potentially harmful additives.
Frequency
Apply diatomaceous earth regularly, especially during warmer months when pests are most active. Reapply after rain or when coop conditions become damp to maintain effectiveness.
Warnings and Safety Precautions
Choose food-grade DE: Always opt for 100% food-grade (amorphous) diatomaceous earth to ensure safety for your flock. Avoid industrial-grade diatomaceous earth intended for swimming pools, as it may contain harmful additives.
Protect yourself: Wear goggles and a face mask when handling diatomaceous earth to avoid inhalation or eye irritation. While diatomaceous earth is non-toxic to mammals, precautions should still be taken during application in the same way you would protect yourself when applying soil improver or fertilisers to your garden.
Bonus Uses for Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth can be used in a host of other ways around the home and farm.
Here are a few:
Sprinkle on other outdoor pets' bedding to control fleas (dogs, goats, sheep, etc.)
Use for treating ear mites on pets
Control internal parasites in goats and sheep
Add to garden to combat slugs and snails
Add to stored vegetable seeds to deter pests
Great for controlling cockroaches, silverfish, ants, fleas, ticks, lice, earwigs, aphids & white flies
By incorporating diatomaceous earth into your chicken keeping routine, you can effectively manage pests while promoting the health and well-being of your feathered companions. Unlock the natural benefits of DE for a naturally happier and healthier flock.
