mites

I was told to use Seven dust on the chickens for mites.. does anyone else have a better idea? My mom is very allergic to Seven dust so I don't want to use it.

Here is a university source that lists other possible treatments--pyrethroids seem to work.

http://ucanr.org/freepubs/docs/8162.pdf

I use this product linked below that is a permethrin dust and it works very well. I apply it using latex gloves. It is a powder so if it is a windy day, use a mask.
http://www.jefferslivestock.com/ssc/product.asp?CID=2&pf_id=16252

Incidentally, Sevin dust is pretty toxic and I avoid using it on anything in my yard at all.

You can also use a permethrin spray like this one:
http://www.cutlersupply.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_80&products_id=453

It's pretty widely available at farm stores.

Newbie question. How do I know if my chickens have mites?

You can see them. Check around the vent and also around the neck feathers. They are often little tan colored things and you can see them run. They tend to run from the light if you expose the skin and they are there. They also lay their eggs mostly on the neck feathers and it looks like little white dust stuff at the base of the neck feathers. If you have bad eyesight, use a magnifying glass.

Ah, I will check. Thank you very much!