Best Deworming Methods for Large Free-Range Flock Without Handling Each Chicken

[ChickMagnet]

Hello everyone,

I have a flock of around 60 free-range chickens, and I've noticed a few of them showing signs of having worms. After a heavy rain washed away some of the poop they were hiding in, I even saw worms in the exposed droppings. Since I have such a large flock and it would be difficult to handle each chicken individually, I'm looking for recommendations on effective deworming methods that don't require much hands-on work. If anyone with larger flocks has experience with this,

I'd love to hear about any methods or treatments you've used. Thanks in advance!

[FeatherFiesta]

A hands-off approach I've found helpful is using a feed additive like Diatomaceous Earth (DE). It's safe to mix into their feed and can help with internal parasites. While it's not as fast-acting as chemical dewormers, it's a natural solution that's easy to add without handling the birds.

[EggSeeker]

You can use a deworming product like Fenbendazole (Safeguard) or WormGuard Plus, which you can mix with their feed or water. They ingest it on their own, and you don't have to handle each chicken. Make sure to follow the instructions for your flock size.

[FarmsteadFowl]

Using a medicated feed is a good approach when you're dealing with a large flock. Many dewormers are available in pellet form that you can simply add to their regular feed. Just make sure you're consistent with the deworming schedule and watch for any changes in behavior.

[EggspertFarmer]

We had the same issue with a large flock, and the best method we've found is using a deworming powder mixed into their feed. It's simple to do, and most chickens will eat it without issue. Just make sure they have access to fresh water at all times.

[CrowingChampion]

I recommend using a water-based dewormer for free-range flocks. It's super easy; you mix the medication into their drinking water and they take it on their own. If you're worried about dilution, make sure to keep an eye on their water supply, especially after rain.

[Eggcentric]

I've used a similar method in the past where I put the dewormer in the chickens' water. It's very easy, and you don't need to handle each chicken. Just make sure they drink enough water with the treatment in it, and keep the water clean.

[EggTinker]

You could try using a deworming product in their water. I've used a product that you add directly to the water source. The chickens drink it, and it's effective, though you'll need to keep an eye on water consumption to make sure they're all getting their dose.

[FowlFolklore]

One thing I've done is using a deworming mix in the feed, which helps ensure that all the chickens get their treatment. You just mix the powder with the feed, and they eat it as usual. It's a convenient, hands-off solution, but you'll need to repeat it regularly for full effectiveness.

[FeatheredTrailblazer]

If you're looking for a more natural approach, I've used pumpkin seeds, which can help with some types of worms. You can sprinkle them in their feed or just toss them around in their run. It's easy, but may take longer to show results compared to commercial dewormers.114 I wouldn't worry too much about the size of the eggs. Even smaller eggs can hatch, though they may have a slightly lower chance of a successful hatch compared to larger eggs. Since you know they're fertilized, I'd go ahead and incubate them. The eggs will still contain all the necessary nutrients for development.