In this guide
Types of worms that can affect chickens
Chickens can carry several different parasitic worms. Examples include large intestinal roundworms such as Ascaridia, caecal worms such as Heterakis, threadworms or hairworms in the Capillaria group, tapeworms and gapeworms. These are different parasites, not names for one infection.
Where they affect the bird
Many worms affect the digestive system, while gapeworms can affect the respiratory tract. Signs and significance vary with the parasite and the burden. A chicken with breathing difficulty needs prompt veterinary attention rather than an assumed worm diagnosis.
How a flock is exposed
Some parasites spread when birds ingest infective eggs or larvae; others involve intermediate or transport hosts such as insects or earthworms. Risk varies with the environment and flock management.
Identification and care
A vet may recommend testing droppings or other investigation. Weight loss, changed droppings or reduced laying also have non-parasitic causes. Ask for a flock-specific treatment plan and check Australian laying-hen suitability and withholding instructions. Do not select a medicine from a worm name alone.
