Conversations about backyard chickens, quail and turkeys with a side of humor Veterinarian Tips on Managing Worms in Chickens, turkeys and quail
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In this episode of Poultry Nerds, we sit down with Dr. M — our resident poultry vet — to get real about worms in backyard flocks. From the most common culprits (roundworms, tapeworms, cecal worms) to why a fecal float test matters, Dr. M breaks down:
- ✅ What types of worms chickens typically get — and how common each is.
- 🔬 How a fecal flotation test works: mixing droppings with solution so worm eggs rise — then viewing under a microscope to spot the parasites.
- 🎯 Why even free-range birds can have worms — and how worm eggs can linger in soil for years, reinfecting flocks.
- 🧹 Best practices for prevention: quarantine new birds, rotate pasture, clean or turn over soil — plus when to consider deworming.
- ⚠️ The risks of heavy worm loads — from reduced egg production to intestinal blockages, poor growth, or even death.
If you raise chickens — whether a small flock or a full backyard setup — this is essential listening. 🐣
➡️ Timestamps
- 0:00 — Intro & quick background on Dr. M
- 2:15 — Cold weather & worms — do they survive?
- 5:30 — What a fecal float test is & how to get one done
- 10:00 — Common worms: roundworms, tapeworms, cecal worms
- 16:45 — How worms spread & contaminate soil
- 22:00 — Treatment, dewormers, and why you must check withdrawal times
- 26:30 — Prevention: spacing, rotation, biosecurity
- 30:00 — Q&A: eggs, worms, wild birds, and natural remedies
Don’t forget: check the show notes for a link to the approved-meds site (FARAD.org) when using dewormers — especially for birds you plan to eat or collect eggs from.
Join Carey of Show Pro Farm Supply and Jennifer of Bryant's Roost as we delve into chickens and quail (mostly) to help you enjoy your birds more and worry less. Backyard chicken keeping shouldnt be stressfull, let's get back to the simple days
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