Elector PSP: Effective Chicken Mite & Lice Treatment | Poultry Health

Picture this: You have a beautiful flock of chickens, but there’s a tiny hitch — those pesky mites and lice that love to infest their feathers and cause all sorts of trouble. Getting rid of lice and mites can be a long, hard-fought trial, unless you have the right product to help. That is where Elector PSP comes into play. Let’s take some time to learn about this insect control product, including what it is, how it works, and if it is safe to apply to your chickens.

Why Are Lice and Mites a Problem For Chickens?

You might be wondering, “Why are mites and lice such an issue? Why do I have to be so proactive about keeping them off my chickens?” The answer is a bit more complicated than lice and mites causing health problems. The fact of the matter is that stressed and sick chickens are not as productive. If you are counting on your flock to produce eggs but they keep getting ill because of parasites, you are going to run into problems.

Here are some reasons why you should treat mites and lice on chickens as soon as you can:

• Irritation and Discomfort: Mites and lice are external parasites that feed on the blood, skin, and feathers of chickens. Their presence causes itching, irritation, and discomfort for the birds, leading to excessive scratching and pecking. This can result in feather loss, skin damage, and even wounds, making the chickens vulnerable to infections.
• Decreased Egg Production: Mite and lice infestations can affect the overall health and well-being of chickens, leading to stress and a decrease in egg production. Chickens may divert their energy towards dealing with the discomfort caused by the parasites, reducing their ability to lay eggs consistently.
• Anemia and Weakness: In severe cases, heavy infestations of mites and lice can cause anemia in chickens. The parasites feed on the blood of the birds, leading to a loss of nutrients and weakening their immune system. Anemic chickens may exhibit lethargy, decreased appetite, and a decline in overall health.
• Spread of Diseases: Mites and lice can serve as vectors for diseases, allowing them to transmit pathogens among the flock. They can carry bacteria, viruses, and other parasites, increasing the risk of infections and compromising the overall health of the chickens.
• Negative Economic Impact: Mite and lice infestations can have economic implications for poultry farmers. Decreased egg production, increased mortality rates, and the need for additional veterinary treatments can result in financial losses for the farm.

What is Elector PSP?

Recently, Elector PSP has gained popularity in the poultry industry for its efficacy in controlling mites and lice infestations, making it a valuable tool for poultry owners and farmers in maintaining the health and productivity of their flocks. So, what is it?

Elector PSP is an insect control product specifically designed for poultry, including chickens. It is the brainchild of Elanco, a renowned company in the field of animal health. Elector PSP contains a powerful active ingredient called Spinosad, which is derived from the fermentation of S. Spinosa, a naturally occurring bacterium.

The active ingredient in this powerful product is actually a mixture of two components: spinosyn A and spinosyn D, in a ratio of 17:3. This combination of spinosyns makes Elector PSP highly effective against a wide range of pests, including mites and lice that commonly infest chickens. Most importantly, when used properly, this product is effective for two hard-to-kill species of mites: fowl mites (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) and poultry red mites (Dermanyssus gallinae).

How Does Elector PSP Work?

Elector PSP acts as both a larvicide and an adulticide, meaning it can target and eliminate both the immature stages and adult forms of mites and lice. It disrupts the nervous system of these pests, leading to paralysis and eventual death. As mentioned earlier, the active ingredient Spinosad is a powerhouse, because it targets insects at different life stages.

For instance, when insects come into contact with Elector PSP during their adult stage, they will not be able to function. During larval or egg growth stages, the nervous system is attacked, often causing paralysis. How? Spinosad blocks certain neural pathways by acting on nicotine acetylcholine and GABA receptors.

How to Use Elector PSP on Chickens

Red mite

As with any kind of medication or chemical, knowing how to apply it for maximum effect is crucial. Here are some instructions to help you apply Elector PSP to your chickens as a lice and mite treatment:

Dilution

Before application, you need to dilute Elector PSP properly. The recommended dilution ratios may vary depending on the specific infestation and the type of pests you are targeting. Here are a few examples:

• For Northern fowl mite control: Mix 90 ml of Elector PSP in 10 gallons of water. Ensure thorough coverage, particularly on and around the cloaca region. Use approximately 1 gallon of the diluted solution per 100 birds.
• For poultry red mite control: Dilute 60 ml of Elector PSP in 5 gallons of water. This diluted solution can cover an area of about 2,500 square feet, when spraying the surrounding areas.

It is essential to follow the instructions provided on the product label for precise dilution ratios, as they may vary depending on the concentration and formulation of Elector PSP.

Application

Once you have the diluted solution prepared, it’s time to apply Elector PSP to the chickens. Here’s how:

1. Use a spray bottle, sprayer, or any suitable equipment for spraying the solution.
2. Start by targeting the affected areas. These typically include the vent area, where mites and lice tend to accumulate, as well as any other areas where infestations are observed.
3. Ensure thorough coverage of the feathers, skin, and cracks and crevices where the pests may hide.
4. Pay attention to areas around the cloaca, under the wings, and on the neck region.
5. If possible, gently part the feathers to directly expose the affected areas for more effective application.
6. Repeat the application after 14 days to ensure any surviving or newly hatched pests are also targeted.

Also watch this video where breeders talk about their experience with the Elector PSP:

How to Use Elector PSP on Surfaces

If you would rather spare your chickens the Elector PSP bath, there are other ways to tackle pest populations around the yard. You can spray diluted Elector PSP onto surfaces, including around the chicken run and inside the coop. Other applicable locations include horse stables, feedlots, beef and dairy setups, and other agricultural structures. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Dilution for Coop Surfaces: When it comes to treating the coop and its surfaces, Elector PSP needs to be properly diluted to achieve effective results. The exact dilution ratio may vary based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. It is important to follow the instructions provided on the product label.
• Spray Application: Once the dilution is prepared, use a low-pressure sprayer or spraying tank to apply Elector PSP to the coop surfaces. Ensure thorough coverage of all areas where pests may hide, such as cracks, crevices, and nesting boxes.
• Targeting Flies: Elector PSP can be used to control house flies and stable flies. For house flies, a dilution of 60 ml of Elector PSP in 10 gallons of water is recommended. Apply the solution to all the surfaces where flies rest, including walls, ceilings, and other fly-prone areas.
• Controlling Beetles: To combat darkling and hide beetles, you can use Elector PSP in low or moderate-volume sprays. For low-volume spraying, mix Elector PSP with 15 gallons of water, while for moderate-volume spraying, use 40 gallons of water. Adjust the amount of Elector PSP based on the area you need to cover.
• Precautions for Plants: It is important to note that Elector PSP should be used with caution around vegetable and fruit plants in your backyard. To avoid any potential harm to these plants, take care to keep the spray focused on the intended areas and prevent contact with the vegetation.

Is There an Egg Withdrawal Period When Using Elector PSP?

Nope! One of the notable features of Elector PSP is its effectiveness against mites and lice without the need for an egg withdrawal period. This means that eggs laid by treated chickens can be consumed without any waiting period, ensuring the continuity of egg production and minimizing any disruption to the flock.

Elector PSP Safety Measures and Cautions

It is important to note that Elector PSP should be used according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer and under the guidance of a poultry veterinarian or professional. Proper dilution, application techniques, and safety precautions should be followed to ensure optimal results and the well-being of the chickens.

When using Elector PSP as a lice and mite treatment for chickens, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Start by carefully reading and understanding the instructions, precautions, and warnings provided on the product label. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and protective clothing, to minimize skin or eye contact. While you can put it on your chickens, you do not want it getting on you!

Store any remaining amount of Elector PSP in its original container in a cool, dark place. You also want to keep it out of reach of children and animals.

Furthermore, take precaution when using Elector PSP near sources of water. Avoid applying the product directly to water surfaces or areas with mollusks, as it will kill them off. Dispose of the container and any unused product responsibly, following local waste management regulations.

If at any time you have concerns or questions, consult with a poultry veterinarian or professional to ensure the safe and effective use of Elector PSP.

Final Thoughts on Elector PSP for Treating Lice and Mites

Elector PSP proves to be a valuable tool in the battle against lice and mites in chickens. With its active ingredient, Spinosad, it offers an effective and safe solution without egg withdrawal. By following proper usage guidelines, including dilution ratios and treating both chickens and coop surfaces, you can protect your flock from these troublesome pests. In short, with Elector PSP, you can promote a healthy and thriving chicken environment free from the burdens of lice and mites.

Valerie has been content writing since 2016 for websites and companies all around the world. A traveler, dancer, martial artist, Valerie loves gathering experiences and wisdom. Her travels have taken her to over 20 countries, and she hopes to see more of the world soon.