Size
Tiny (pinhead)
Color
Opaque to black
Description
Bird mites are tiny eight legged parasites that live primarily on birds and breed in their nests. They multiply quickly. Eggs hatch in 3 days and reach adult stage in 5 days.
Thousands might live on one bird and when the bird dies they all leave in search of a new host.
While they prefer birds to humans, bird mites cannot live more than 10 days without a blood meal and if separated from their bird host they will adopt another host.
Bird mite bites will leave reddish bumps on the skin. Newly hatched mites do not feed as often but the host may feel them crawling on the skin while able to see them. They can also enter the mouth and nose while the host is sleeping and feed internally.
Control Advice
Remove bird nests near or in your home, discourage wild birds from nesting or roosting on or near your home and keep windows closed if birds are nesting or roosting on the outside ledge.
Active Seasons
Bird mites are most active in spring and summer.