Flies are not just a nuisance for poultry and workers. When they multiply, they can dirty equipment and contribute to the spread of germs between areas of the chicken coop. To limit their presence, you must above all prevent larvae from developing in droppings and damp materials.
Identify the areas that attract them
Regularly inspect places where droppings accumulate: under drinkers, around feeders, in poorly ventilated corners and beneath raised equipment. Wet, compacted litter or litter soiled by leaks provides a favourable environment. Piles of manure left near the poultry house can also sustain flies and encourage their return.
Also inspect the surrounding areas: stagnant water, feed residue, soiled bags or dense vegetation against the walls. After the rains, which are frequent during the wet season, check that water drains away properly around the chicken coop.
Keep droppings and litter as dry as possible
Promptly repair leaking drinkers and adjust their height according to the birds’ age. Check that the connections are not dripping and that the poultry do not spill water while drinking. If an area of litter is wet, remove the soiled part, find the cause and replace it with clean, dry material.
Ensure there is sufficient ventilation, without a direct draught on the birds. Good air circulation helps remove moisture. Remove droppings accumulated under the equipment regularly, according to a schedule suited to the flock density and the condition of the poultry house. Store them in an area away from the poultry, protected from the rain and managed to prevent runoff and damp piles.
Clean the surrounding areas and act with caution
Sweep up spilled feed and keep bags and waste in closed containers. Clear the drains and eliminate persistent puddles. If you use an insect control product, strictly follow its label and a professional’s instructions. Do not spray it on birds, eggs, water or feed. Treatment never replaces sanitising breeding sites.
In Côte d’Ivoire, adopt a simple routine: inspect damp areas every day, fix leaks immediately and organise the removal of droppings. Starting today, identify the main fly breeding site around your chicken coop and remove the cause, not just the visible insects.
--- *Source: NEXTEKCI — In-house expertise — summary and analysis by NEXTEKCI.*