Worming hens

Q.  We have recently given a home to six hens.  We were told that they should be wormed regularly.  Is that right?

A.  Yes.  Free range hens are at risk from common poultry worms which can cause illness and reduced egg quality.  There is a special worming powder, available from your vets, which you sprinkle on your hens’ food.  This treatment does not affect the eggs.