Though they’re only 1/32 inch long, they are visible to the naked eye.

Bird mites typically complete their life cycle on birds or in their nests.

However, they sometimes also come into human contact through pet birds.

A big flock of birds

Frank Rothe / Getty Images

Without it, they will die within a couple of weeks.

These mites are in the arachnid family, along withticksandspiders.

These parasites lay eggs in nests or directly on birds in their feathers.

Mites do not fly and only move by crawling.

Bird mites can bite humans but cannot live on human skin.

Though a nuisance, they do not pose a health hazard.

But they can come into contact with humans at any time.

Symptoms of bird mites include:

Some people may not react at all to bird mite bites.

Unfortunately, not much distinguishes these bites from otherinsect bitesorskin rashes.

In some cases, treatment has required antihistamines for itching or even the use of corticosteroids.

A pet bird may need veterinary care to get to treat a bird mite infection.

At home, you might:

Pest control products may be needed to stop or prevent bird mite infestation.

They include:

When treating chickens, some studies have explored the use of fungal treatments and essential oils.

More research is needed to evaluate this natural alternative to chemical pesticides.

What Kills Bird Mites Instantly?

Consider speaking with a pest control professional about the best practices to manage bird mites.

Summary

Bird mites are parasites in the arachnid family.

They feed off bird blood but sometimes come into contact with and bite humans.

Other insects, mites, or allergens may be the cause of your symptoms.

University of Minnesota Extension.Bird mites.

University of Wisconsin Madison Department of Entomology Insect Diagnostic Lab.A mysterious tingling sensation: bird mites.

Colorado State University.Bird mites as a pest within homes in Colorado.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.Bird mites.

2020 Mar;98(3):241-245.

2017 Jul;51(3):293-298.

2017 Oct;66(5):666-670. doi: 10.1016/j.parint.2017.05.001.

Farmers' Almanac.What is diatomaceous earth and how does it kill bugs?

2016 Oct 15;229:159-165. doi: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.10.018.