🐔 Fly Strike in Chickens: What It Is & How to Protect Your Flock

If you keep chickens, you’ve probably heard the term “fly strike”—but what exactly is it, and why is it such a big deal? Fly strike is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can affect your beloved hens, especially during warmer months.

In this blog, we’ll explain:

• What fly strike is

• How to recognize it early

• Why it happens

• How to prevent and treat it

🪰 What Is Fly Strike?

Fly strike, also known as myiasis, happens when flies lay eggs on your chickens, usually around dirty or damp areas, such as soiled feathers near the vent. When the eggs hatch, the larvae (maggots) burrow into the chicken’s skin, causing severe irritation, infection, and tissue damage.

This condition is painful and can quickly become deadly if not treated promptly.

🕵️♂️ How to Spot Fly Strike Early

Early detection is key! Watch for these signs in your chickens:

• Restlessness or constant scratching at the rear

• Matted, wet, or soiled feathers around the vent or under the tail

• Foul-smelling discharge or a bad odor coming from your hen

• Visible maggots or fly eggs in the feathers or skin folds

• Lethargy, loss of appetite, or depression in your hen

• Pale comb or wattles due to shock or blood loss

If you see any of these signs, inspect your hen immediately and act fast!

🐣 Why Does Fly Strike Happen?

Fly strike is most common in:

• Warm, humid weather (spring and summer)

• Hens with dirty or damp feathers, especially around the vent

• Birds with diarrhea or pasty vents that attract flies

• Chickens with injuries or wounds where flies can lay eggs

• Overcrowded or poorly maintained coops where hygiene is compromised

Flies are attracted to moist, smelly areas—so keeping your hens and coop clean is crucial.

🛡️ How to Prevent Fly Strike

Prevention is always better than cure! Here’s how to protect your flock:

1. Keep Your Hens Clean

• Regularly check and clean your hens’ vents, especially during warm months

• Trim feathers around the vent if they get dirty or matted

• Promptly address diarrhea or “pasty butt” issues

2. Maintain a Clean Coop

• Remove droppings and soiled bedding frequently

• Use dry, absorbent bedding materials like straw or wood shavings

• Ensure good ventilation to reduce dampness

3. Use Fly Control Measures

• Set up fly traps around the coop

• Consider natural deterrents like diatomaceous earth or essential oils safe for chickens

• Avoid chemicals that could harm your birds

4. Regular Health Checks

• Inspect your hens daily, especially during warmer months

• Isolate and treat any hen showing signs of illness or injury

🚑 How to Treat Fly Strike

If you discover fly strike on a hen:

1. Isolate the affected bird immediately.

2. Carefully remove maggots using tweezers or flush with warm water (wear gloves!).

3. Clean the wound with a mild antiseptic solution.

4. Apply a fly repellent ointment or powder safe for poultry.

5. Consult your vet for antibiotics or pain relief as needed.

6. Monitor your hen closely during recovery.

Early treatment can save your hen’s life, but severe cases may require professional veterinary care.

🐔 Final Thoughts

Fly strike is a nasty but preventable problem. With good hygiene, regular checks, and swift action at the first sign of trouble, you can keep your flock happy, healthy, and fly-free.

– The Chook Manor Team 🐓✨