Veterinarian Tips on Managing Worms in Chickens, turkeys and quail

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.