Sticktight fleas may be small, but their effects on backyard flocks can be devastating. These parasites attach firmly to a chicken’s face, comb, and wattles, where they feed on blood and cause painful irritation. Left untreated, they can weaken birds, reduce egg production, and even lead to blindness or death in extreme cases.
Fortunately, sticktight fleas can be managed effectively when caught early—and the safest solutions are available for poultry keepers today.
What Are Sticktight Fleas?
Sticktight fleas (Echidnophaga gallinacea) are a unique type of flea found in warm climates, though they occasionally appear elsewhere. Unlike common fleas that jump from host to host, sticktight fleas embed their heads into bare skin and remain fixed in place for up to two weeks.
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Size: 1.4–4 mm, appearing as dark specks.
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Location: Around eyes, comb, wattles, and ear openings.
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Lifecycle: Adults feed while attached; eggs drop into bedding, hatch in soil, and develop into new adults within 3–4 weeks.
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Signs in chickens: Black, stationary “dots” on the face, crusty lesions, pale combs, restlessness, and eye irritation.
Early detection is critical, since infestations multiply quickly.
Symptoms of Sticktight Fleas in Chickens
Watch for the following signs in your flock:
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Dark, immovable specks on the comb, wattles, or eyelids
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Crusty skin or lesions where fleas are embedded
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Swollen or irritated eyes that may cause vision issues
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Anemia (pale combs, weakness, fatigue) in heavier infestations
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Behavior changes such as scratching, head shaking, or restlessness
If you spot even a few sticktight fleas, it is best to act immediately before the infestation spreads.
Treatment Options for Sticktight Fleas
There are multiple ways to treat sticktight fleas, each with advantages and drawbacks.
1. Manual Removal
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How it works: Fleas can be carefully plucked from combs or wattles using tweezers, followed by an application of antibiotic ointment.
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Best for: Mild infestations.
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Drawback: Time-consuming and stressful for birds; impractical for larger flocks.
2. Chemical Insecticides (Permethrin, Pyrethrin)
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How it works: Commercial sprays and powders quickly kill fleas on contact.
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Best for: Severe infestations needing immediate knockdown.
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Drawback: Toxic to cats and other animals, may require egg withdrawal, and can leave chemical residues in the coop.
3. Natural, Non-Toxic Alternatives Like Premo Guard Poultry Spray
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How it works: Plant-based, ready-to-use spray that eliminates fleas, lice, and mites without harsh chemicals.
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Best for: Safe, consistent treatment and prevention.
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Drawback: Requires daily application at first to fully disrupt the flea lifecycle.
Why Premo Guard Poultry Spray Is the Safest Choice
Among all available treatments, Premo Guard Poultry Spray is the safest and most practical option for long-term flock health.
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✅ All-natural formula: Made from essential oils—no toxic chemicals.
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✅ Family- and pet-safe: No risk to children, cats, or dogs.
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✅ No egg withdrawal: Continue collecting and eating eggs without worry.
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✅ Dual action: Can be sprayed directly on birds and throughout the coop environment.
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✅ Vet-trusted: Used nationwide by poultry keepers who prefer chemical-free care.
While chemical insecticides may act faster, their risks often outweigh their benefits. Premo Guard offers peace of mind, ensuring your flock is protected naturally and effectively.
Tips for Preventing Reinfestation
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Stay consistent: Sticktight fleas have a 3–4 week lifecycle. Reapply spray daily until no new fleas appear.
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Clean the coop: Replace bedding, scrub roosts, and disinfect nest boxes.
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Spray at night: Apply while birds are roosting for easier handling.
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Control rodents: Mice and rats often carry fleas—seal entry points and store feed in secure bins.
Final Takeaway
Sticktight fleas are stubborn pests, but with the right treatment strategy, you can protect your flock and restore their health. While manual removal and chemical insecticides are options, Premo Guard Poultry Spray remains the safest, most natural, and most reliable choice for backyard chicken owners.
With consistent use and good coop management, your birds can stay flea-free—without compromising their safety, your eggs, or your peace of mind.
