10d • General discussion
🛡️Biosecurity 101: Essential Practices Every Backyard Flock Owner Should Know
Think biosecurity is just for commercial farms? Think again! These simple practices protect your flock from devastating diseases - and they're easier than you think.
🛡️What IS Biosecurity?
Simply put: preventing disease from entering or spreading in your flock. Small flocks are actually MORE vulnerable because we often skip basic protections!
The Big Three Disease Entry Points:
🐓New birds - the #1 risk factor
🐀Wild birds & rodents - carry diseases in droppings
🙂YOU - clothes, shoes, hands, equipment
Essential Practices for Backyard Flocks:
QUARANTINE New Birds:
🗓️Isolate newcomers 30 days minimum
🚪Separate housing (not just separate pen!)
🤧Observe for illness signs
🐔Care for established flock FIRST, new birds last
CONTROL Wild Bird & Rodent Access:
🗑️Secure feed in rodent-proof containers
🧹Clean up spilled feed daily
🐔Cover outdoor runs if possible
🐀Fix gaps where rodents enter
LIMIT HUMAN TRAFFIC:
🥾Dedicate shoes/boots for coop only
🧼Wash hands before AND after flock care
🐣Don't visit other flocks then come home to yours
🧽Clean equipment between flocks
MONITOR Daily:
🤧Watch for respiratory signs, lethargy, decreased appetite
🐔Early detection = better outcomes
Why It Matters:
Diseases like Marek's, Mycoplasma, and Coccidiosis spread easily. Once established in your environment, they're nearly impossible to eliminate.
Your turn:
❓What's your chicken shoe game? Dedicated boots, Crocs, or "these old sneakers that are basically ruined anyway"? 👟
❓Which part of biosecurity are you most consistent with for your flock?
Boots
Crocs
Old shoes
Other (tell us in the comments)
2
4 comments
🛡️Biosecurity 101: Essential Practices Every Backyard Flock Owner Should Know
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Vet-led community for backyard poultry keepers. Dr. Nisana, DVM, provides expert guidance on flock health, disease prevention, nutrition, & wellness.
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