[VeggieVirgin]

I haven't seen a red mite in the coop for quite some time now. Do they go dormant in the winter, or is it possible that I've managed to eradicate them? (Fingers crossed for the latter explanation!)

[alisonwo]

I don't think they do so you may have cleared them. At least mine haven't I still find the odd few when I have a good clean out. Well done you. alison

[VeggieVirgin]

I don't think they do so you may have cleared them. At least mine haven't I still find the odd few when I have a good clean out. Well done you. alison

Oh brill! Thanks, Alison.

In that case, what worked for me was regular spraying with a strong solution of Dettol (every two or three days), plus regular dusting around the coop with Diatom, particularly the perches.

I'm going to remain vigilant, though. And I've got some wood filler, which I'm going to use to fill up all the nail holes, knots etc. the next time we get a nice day.

[ehs284]

VV,
I'd suggest not filling cracks. Wood moves, expands and contracts with humidity and temperature. A filled crack today may be a good crevice for for a mite tomorrow. If it's possible, my suggestion is to open gaps so that pesticides, diatomaceous earth and bleach can get in.
Mites and other similar creatures are semi dormant over winter. They live by the temperature of their surroundings, so you will see a decrease - perhaps to practically nothing in winter. A good time to get your strategy ready for 2011.