Description
Poultry mites (chicken mites) are parasites of chickens that breed up rapidly under warm, humid conditions. They cause the birds great distress and are also able to bite humans.
Hypoaspis are robust predatory mites that feed on a wide range of soft-bodied organisms. Reports from users in Australia and elsewhere indicate that Hypoaspis can be very useful in the battle against poultry mites.
Download our Hypoaspis for poultry mites info sheet
Target pests
- Poultry mites (chicken mites)
Advantages
- A robust predatory mite
- Quick and easy to use
- A far better option than chemicals
When to release
Release hypoaspis mites early in the season at the first hint of chicken mite activity. If chicken mites have been present in the past then release pro-actively in early-mid Spring. We suggest monthly releases until there are no signs of chicken mite activity.
Recommended release rates
Release 1 tub of Hypoaspis mites per 5-10 birds depending on the severity of infestation. Make follow up releases at monthly intervals until there is no evidence of pest mite activity.
| Season | Suggested release rate |
| Spring & Autumn | 1 tub per 10-20 birds |
| Summer | 1 tub per 5-10 birds |
How to release
Hypoaspis mites are packed in cardboard tubs containing a mixture of sawdust, cocoa peat and vermiculite. They should be released as soon as possible after delivery. If necessary, tubs can be stored for several days at 10-18°C.
Ensure that the content of the tubs is well mixed immediately prior to release. You may apply the Hypoaspis mite mix directly onto the floor of the chicken pen and into crevices. Concentrate material in and around nesting boxes. Hypoaspis mites will not cause harm to chickens or humans.
Hygiene
Keep your chicken coop clean and change bedding material regularly (especially in nesting boxes). Try to ensure the humidity is managed by reducing the opportunity for rain to enter.
Chemical use
Some chemical products are highly toxic to Hypoaspis mites. We strongly suggest that you avoid pesticides in your chicken coop.
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