Keeping chickens healthy involves more than simply providing food and fresh water. During spring and summer, one of the biggest challenges poultry keepers face is red mite.
These tiny parasites can multiply rapidly in warm conditions, causing discomfort, stress and reduced egg production if left untreated. The good news is that with regular checks and good coop management, red mite can usually be prevented or controlled before it becomes a serious problem.
This guide explains how to recognise the signs of red mite, where to look, how to prevent infestations and the products that can help protect your flock.
Quick Guide: Red Mite At A Glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When are red mites most active? | Spring, summer and early autumn |
| Where do they live? | Cracks, crevices, perches and nesting boxes |
| Do they stay on chickens? | No, they feed at night and hide during the day |
| Can they affect egg production? | Yes, severe infestations can reduce laying |
| Best defence? | Regular cleaning and early treatment |
What Is Red Mite?
Red mites are tiny blood-feeding parasites that attack poultry, particularly chickens. Unlike lice, they do not live permanently on the bird. Instead, they hide in the coop during the day and emerge at night to feed.
Because they are so small, many keepers don't realise they have a problem until the infestation has become established.
Regularly inspecting your poultry housing is one of the easiest ways to catch an infestation early.
Signs Your Chickens May Have Red Mite
Early detection is key.
- Chickens reluctant to enter the coop.
- Reduced egg production.
- Pale combs or wattles.
- Restlessness at night.
- Feather pecking or excessive scratching.
- Tiny grey or red mites around perches and nesting areas.
If several birds begin showing these signs at the same time, it's worth carrying out a full inspection of the coop.
Where Should You Look?
Red mites rarely stay on the birds during daylight hours.
Instead, inspect:
- Perches
- Nesting boxes
- Wooden joints
- Roof corners
- Under feeders
- Any small cracks or gaps
Cleaning your coop regularly and replacing soiled poultry bedding makes these inspections much easier.
How To Prevent Red Mite
Prevention is far easier than dealing with a severe infestation.
Simple habits include:
- Cleaning the coop regularly.
- Replacing bedding frequently.
- Checking perches every week.
- Keeping drinkers and feeders clean.
- Using preventative red mite treatments.
Using quality poultry drinkers and poultry feeders also helps maintain a cleaner environment for your flock.
Treating A Red Mite Infestation
If you discover red mite, act quickly.
Start by removing all bedding and thoroughly cleaning the coop. Pay particular attention to cracks and crevices where mites hide.
Once cleaned, apply an appropriate treatment following the manufacturer's instructions.
Supporting your birds with products from our poultry health range can also help them recover from the stress of an infestation.
Keeping Your Flock Healthy All Summer
Summer is one of the busiest times for poultry keepers, but a few minutes spent inspecting your coop each week can prevent much bigger problems later on.
Regular cleaning, good hygiene and early action are the best ways to keep your chickens comfortable, productive and healthy throughout the warmer months.
Browse our range of poultry health products, feeders, drinkers and housing essentials to help protect your flock all year round.
Protect Your Flock This Summer
From red mite treatments and poultry health supplements to feeders and drinkers, explore everything you need to help keep your chickens healthy and productive.
