Raising backyard chickens can be both a rewarding and challenging endeavor. To ensure your flock stays healthy and productive, it’s essential to employ effective and natural methods for pest control and overall chicken health. One such solution is 100% natural food grade diatomaceous earth (DE) or food grade de. This comprehensive guide explores the benefits, uses, how to apply diatomaceous earth, and precautions of using diatomaceous earth for chickens.
What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that can be crumbled into a fine white powder. It’s made up of the fossilized remains of tiny, aquatic organisms called diatoms. These microscopic creatures have skeletons made of silica, and over millennia, they accumulated in riverbeds, lakes, and oceans. When mined and processed, diatomaceous earth becomes a versatile and beneficial natural products for various applications, including agriculture, health, and pest control.
Types of Diatomaceous Earth
There are three main types of diatomaceous earth: food grade, crawling insect control, and industrial grade.
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth: Safe for human and animal consumption, this type is used for health benefits, pest control in livestock, and as a natural pesticide.
Industrial Grade Diatomaceous Earth: Used in pool filtration and other industrial applications, this type is not safe for consumption due to its high crystalline silica content.
Crawling Insect Control Diatomaceous Earth: Pesticide grade diatomaceous earth is used safely without the worry of chemicals being used. This is one of the only legal diatomaceous earth formulas to use strictly as a safe pesticide for animals, your home, and to eliminate insects in and around your chicken coop.
For a chicken keeper, only food grade diatomaceous earth and crawling insect control diatomaceous earth should be used.
Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth for Chickens
Pest Control: One of the most well-known uses of diatomaceous earth is as a natural pesticide. DE is effective against a variety of external parasites that can plague chickens, such as mites, lice, and fleas. The microscopic sharp edges of DE particles cut through the exoskeletons of these pests, causing them to dehydrate and die. The National Pesticide Information Center states "Diatomaceous earth is not poisonous; it does not have to be eaten in order to be effective. Diatomaceous earth causes insects to dry out and die by absorbing the oils and fats from the cuticle of the insect's exoskeleton. Its sharp edges are abrasive, speeding up the process. It remains effective as long as it is kept dry and undisturbed."
Internal Parasite Control: When ingested, diatomaceous earth can help control internal parasites like worms. The abrasive nature of DE damages the parasites, which can then be expelled from the chicken’s digestive system. When ingested, the animal absorbs the benefits of diatomaceous earth.
Mineral Supplement: Diatomaceous earth contains trace minerals that can be beneficial to chickens, including calcium, silica, magnesium, and iron. These minerals contribute to overall health and productivity.
Improved Egg Quality: Regular use of DE can lead to stronger eggshells due to the additional calcium intake. This is particularly beneficial for layers, ensuring that eggs are less likely to break. The European Journal of Agriculture & Food Sciences conducted a study regarding supplementing food grade diatomaceous earth to chickens and improving egg quality.
Odor Control: DE helps to reduce odors in the coop by absorbing moisture and neutralizing ammonia. This leads to a fresher and more pleasant environment for both chickens and their caretakers.
Litter Management: Adding diatomaceous earth to the chicken coop litter can help keep it dry and free from parasites. This not only improves the hygiene of the coop but also reduces the frequency of litter changes.
How Much Diatomaceous Earth for Chickens
Determining the correct amount of diatomaceous earth to use is crucial for maximizing its benefits without causing harm. Here are some general guidelines:
Feed Additive: For internal parasite control, mix diatomaceous earth into the chicken feed at a ratio of 2% of the total feed weight. For example, if you have 50 pounds of feed, you should add 1 pound of DE. Ensure it is thoroughly mixed to prevent respiratory issues from dust inhalation.
Dust Baths: When creating a dust bath, mix crawling insect control diatomaceous earth with sand or soil in a 1:1 ratio. Provide enough mixture to allow chickens to fully cover themselves while dust bathing.
Coop Treatment: To treat the coop, sprinkle a thin layer of DE in nesting boxes, on roosts, and in the bedding. Approximately 1 cup of DE per 10 square feet of bedding should suffice.
Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for Chickens?
Diatomaceous earth is generally safe for chickens when used correctly. However, there are some precautions to consider:
Respiratory Safety: DE can be irritating to the respiratory system if inhaled. Always wear a mask when handling DE, and avoid using it in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation. Be sure to remove chickens when applying in the coop to ensure they are not inhaling the settling dust.
Eye Protection: The fine particles of DE can cause eye irritation during application. Wear goggles when applying DE to minimize the risk of eye contact.
Correct Dosage: Using too much DE, especially in the feed, can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems. Stick to recommended dosages and monitor your chickens for any signs of distress.
Quality Matters: Only use food grade diatomaceous earth or crawling insect control diatomaceous earth for your chickens. Pool grade DE contains high levels of crystalline silica, which is harmful when ingested or inhaled.
Environmental Conditions: DE works best in dry conditions. Its effectiveness diminishes when wet, so ensure that the coop and dust bath areas remain as dry as possible. During application, be sure to have all chickens out of the coop and wear a dust mask.
Dust Bath for Chickens
Dust baths are a natural and essential behavior for chickens, helping them to stay clean and free from parasites. Enhancing their dust baths with diatomaceous earth can significantly improve their effectiveness.
How to Create a Dust Bath
Choose a Location: Select a dry, sheltered area for the dust bath. This can be inside the coop or in a designated outdoor area.
Prepare the Mixture: Mix diatomaceous earth with sand, soil, or wood ash in a 1:1 ratio. This combination provides a fine, dry dust that chickens can easily work into their feathers.
Provide a Container: Use a shallow container, such as a plastic tub or a wooden box, to hold the dust bath mixture. Ensure it’s large enough for several chickens to use at once.
Maintain the Bath: Regularly check the dust bath and replenish the DE mixture as needed. Remove any clumps or debris to keep the bath clean and effective.
How to Use Diatomaceous Earth for Chickens
External Use
Dust Baths: Chickens naturally take dust baths to clean themselves and deter parasites. Adding DE to their dust bath areas enhances its effectiveness. Simply mix DE with sand or soil in a 1:1 ratio and place it in a shallow container or directly on the ground where chickens typically dust bathe.
Direct Application: For severe infestations, DE can be applied directly to the chickens. Using a dusting applicator or by hand (while wearing gloves and a mask to avoid inhalation), gently work the powder into the feathers, focusing on areas where parasites are most likely to be, such as around the vent, under the wings, and along the back.
Coop Treatment: To prevent and control pests in the coop, sprinkle diatomaceous earth in nesting boxes, on roosts, and in the bedding. This should be done regularly, especially during warm and humid months when parasites are most active.
Internal Use
Feed Additive: To control internal parasites, diatomaceous earth can be added to the chickens’ feed. The general recommendation is to mix 2% DE into their feed. Ensure it is thoroughly mixed to prevent respiratory issues from dust inhalation.
Conclusion
Diatomaceous earth is a versatile and natural solution for maintaining the health and well-being of your chickens. From controlling external and internal parasites to improving egg quality and coop hygiene, DE offers numerous benefits. By understanding how to use it safely and effectively, you can enhance the living conditions of your flock and enjoy the rewards of happy, healthy chickens.
Incorporating diatomaceous earth into your chicken-keeping routine requires some attention to detail, but the benefits far outweigh the effort. With regular use and proper application, you’ll find that DE can be a valuable addition to your arsenal of natural poultry care products.
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