If you are keeping chickens, then it is natural that you want your birds to be healthy and not suffer from diseases or pests. Diatomaceous Earth is one of the best natural ways of pest control that you can use in your home or even in your garden. This is a fine powder made from fossilized skeletal fragments of diatoms – small marine organisms – and is excellent for protecting your chickens from mites, lice, and other insects. However, where can one purchase the DE for chickens and how will one know that they are buying the right one? Let’s explore.
DE, is also commonly known to be a very fine, porous powder made from silica. When applied to chickens, it can repel insects. The small size of the particles has a jagged surface and it can pierce the exoskeleton of insects, which leads to their death due to dehydration. It is a non-toxic method of pest control and is safe to use around chickens and other animals.
Online sellers: Most people nowadays prefer to buy DE from online shops to enjoy the convenience of online shopping and the variety that comes with it. Many online stores such as Amazon, Chewy, and specialty farm supply stores are likely to have food-grade DE. This option also enables you to read the experiences of other customers and price comparisons before making a purchase. Always ensure that the product you are using is labeled as ‘food grade particularly if you wish to include it in your chicken feeds.
Local Farm Supply Stores: Some of the local farm supply or feed stores may sell DE. It is readily available in big stores like the Tractor Supply Co. and smaller, family-run farm shops. Purchasing locally is that you can talk to the staff and make sure you are getting the right product for the chickens.
Just like humans, not all DE is safe to use with animals. Here’s what you should consider when buying DE for your chickens:
Food-Grade Quality: It is best to only use food-grade DE. This type is safe for chickens and other animals. Industrial DE, which is non-food grade, is dangerous when inhaled or consumed.
Fine Powder: Choose the finely powdered DE because it is easily spreadable and can be well mixed in feed. The fine texture makes it easier to distribute as you dust your chicken coop or the chickens themselves.
Yes, DE is safe for chickens and other poultry as well as for other livestock. The DE that is used for food production is safe for ingestion, and therefore, chickens are not affected in any way when they come into contact with it or when they eat it. But too much of it should be avoided because inhaling it can be bad for both the chickens and people alike. This should only be used in a room with proper ventilation and should not be applied liberally.
While in the market to purchase the best DE for the chickens, Seema Minerals will be your go-to option. It makes available high-quality, food-grade DE that is suitable for the health of your flock. Seema Minerals guarantees quality and performance in every single batch, so it is a perfect solution for people who have chickens.
DE is a safe and efficient method of protecting your chickens from pests and parasite infestations. When buying DE it will be more effective if you buy the food-grade pure DE from local farm supply stores or directly from manufacturers such as Seema Minerals if you are buying online. When used correctly, DE will help your chickens remain healthy and free from pests, thus a happy and active flock.