Bird mites are tiny parasites that feed on birds, and sometimes make their way into homes. Most are more of a nuisance than a disaster, but some can make a bird genuinely unwell, so it is worth knowing the signs and acting early.
What are bird mites?
Bird mites are microscopic external parasites (relatives of ticks and spiders) that live on or near birds and feed on blood, skin or feathers. Some live on the bird full-time; others hide in the cage or in nests during the day and come out to feed at night. A few types can also bite people, which is why "bird mites" is such a common household worry as well as a pet-bird one.
Signs your bird has mites
Watch for excessive scratching or preening, restlessness or trouble sleeping (many mites feed at night), feather damage or bald patches, and irritated or scabby skin. With some mites you may see crusty, honeycomb-like growths around the beak, eyes or legs. Heavy infestations can cause weight loss, weakness and anaemia — a pale, run-down bird needs a vet promptly. Tiny moving red, black or grey specks on the bird or cage are another clue.
Common types of bird mites
Red mites (roost mites) hide in cage cracks by day and feed on blood at night, and can cause anaemia. To check, drape a white cloth or paper towel over the cage overnight and look for tiny red or dark specks in the morning. Scaly face and scaly leg mites (common in budgies) burrow into skin and leave crusty, white, honeycomb-like deposits around the beak, cere, eyes and legs. Air sac mites affect the airways of finches and canaries, causing clicking, wheezing, open-mouth breathing and tail bobbing. Feather mites live on the feathers and are usually less serious. The type matters, because treatment differs — which is why a vet diagnosis helps.
Bird mites in the house (and on humans)
Most household "bird mite" problems come from wild bird nests — sparrows, pigeons or starlings nesting in eaves, vents, chimneys or air-conditioning units. When the chicks fledge and leave, the mites lose their host and migrate indoors, where they can bite people. The bites are itchy and unpleasant, but the good news is that these mites cannot live on or reproduce on humans — remove the source and the problem ends. The fix is to safely remove or block off the nest (once any babies have fledged), clean and vacuum affected areas, wash bedding on a hot wash, and call a pest-control professional for a heavy infestation.
How bird mites are treated
For a pet bird, see an avian vet: they can identify the mite and prescribe the right treatment, often a form of ivermectin, plus advice on cleaning the environment. Alongside vet treatment, thoroughly clean and disinfect the cage, discard or deep-clean perches and toys where mites hide, and treat the bird's surroundings as directed. Be cautious with pet-shop "mite sprays," "mite protectors" and cage discs. Many owners and avian vets report they often don't tackle the problem, and some cage "mite protector" discs have been linked to fumes that may harm birds — so it is safest to check with your vet before using them.
How to prevent bird mites
Quarantine any new bird for a few weeks before introducing it to others, keep the cage and its surroundings clean, and avoid contact with wild birds and their droppings or nests. Check your bird over regularly — especially the face, legs and around the vent — so you catch any problem early, while it is still easy to treat.