Diatomaceous Earth is a fine white powder made of the ground up fossilized remains of diatoms (a type of algae). It's 100% natural and it works because at a microscopic level the powder is very absorbant and effectively dehydrates parasites it comes into contact with causing them to shrivel up and expire. It can be used to control both internal and external parasites.

Diatomaceous Earth can be used in your chickens dustbath if you suspect they have lice or mites. It can also be mixed with their feed - a good tip is to add a bit of vegetable oil to the layers pellets before mixing the powder in as it makes it stick to the pellets.

Diatomaceous Earth is also useful if you have a wormery, as it helps to control flies. Just add a light dusting to the top of your Hungry Bin or other wormery contents to help keep flies away.

Diatomaceous Earth is an approved E.U. Feed Additive (Silicon Dioxide) E551C and has been used for over 25 years for controlling parasites naturally.