Locking Bar Eglu Classic

[bluekarin]

Hi all, I was wondering if someone can help me. This morning I noticed some very small black bugs on top of the chickens house and the plastic roof of their run. They are shiny black with very fine legs (I think 6 plus 2 antennae) and look a bit like small ladybirds, but all black, and as far as I can tell, no wings. I have done a thorough check inside their house and nesting box and can't find any in there. I checked the end of the roosting bar (not that they every use it) and got a paintbrush into any crevices to see if there are any in there - none as far as I can tell. On top of their run they have clear plastic corrugated roofing. As its under a tree, it collects quite a few bits of tree debris, and when I moved a bit there were more of these black bugs. I have collected a few of these little things in a pot with an envelope on top. I have tried taking a photo, but the macro function on my camera won't get a enlarged enough picture. I have a microscope, which can be hooked up to the computer, so I shall try that later on. Meanwhile, if anyone knows what these things are, and if I should panic please let me know!

Thank you

[Chucky Mama]

Sounds like 'bugs' rather than parasites to me

[Eggasperated]

Thunder bugs?

[penelope]

If they are tiny & shiney then they sound like they might be flea beetle.........no problems for the chooks but not so good for your veg!!

[bluekarin]

Thank you Thunder bugs are too long and flexible so its not those. I think they are probably some sort of beetle, but I shall give it a good cleaning with Poultry shield just to be sure. I think Daisy has some lice, so I shall be treating her soon. Thanks again.

 

Edit : just checked flea beetles, and its not them either, as they don't jump when you disturb them. I wonder what they are? hmmm

[Roobaloo]

Problem is there are a LOT of black bugs it could be!!

What shape are they? Round/Oval/Long? Do they have a 'shell' like a beetle or are they 'soft' like an ant? Any markings or unusual features?

 

Do you feed live mealworm?