Treating Bird Mites
Bird mites are parasites that feed on the blood of birds and use their nests as breeding places. These mites can greatly endanger the health of affected birds and are capable of causing skin irritation in humans. While bird mites will die within 10 days if they are denied food, it is rarely possible to eliminate bird populations in areas affected by these arachnids. They tend to inhabit poultry houses and farms, as well as homes with pet birds.
Bird mites are present in humid conditions and breed most prolifically in spring and early summer. These times are also the best times to treat bird mites, as their increased populations lead to increased visibility. However, it is recommended that poultry houses experiencing bird mite infestations be treated at least twice a year.
In controlling bird mites around homes, the removal of bird nests is the most important step. Areas surrounding identified breeding sites should be inspected for additional nests, as well. Following the disposal of all infested nests, insecticide treatments may be applied to treat visible specimens.
Illustration of a Mite