Squirrels commonly host various types of mites, which are tiny arachnids naturally present in their environment. These mites often coexist with their hosts without causing immediate alarm. Understanding the relationship between wild animals and these minute companions offers insights into the intricate balance of natural ecosystems.
Squirrels and Their Mite Companions
Squirrels commonly host several types of mites. Species-specific mites, such as Listrophorus spp. and Notoedres centrifera, primarily infest squirrels and are highly adapted to their hosts. These mites typically reside on the fur or skin, feeding on skin cells or debris. While prevalent, their presence does not inherently signify an unhealthy animal.
Other mite species can also associate with squirrels. Rodent mites, such as Ornithonyssus bacoti, are found on squirrels and other rodents. Chiggers, which are larval mites, temporarily attach as squirrels move through vegetation. Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) and Demodex mites can also inhabit squirrels, similar to how they are found on other mammals.
Some mites, like Sarcoptes scabiei, which cause sarcoptic mange, are less host-specific and can affect a broader range of mammals, including squirrels. Mites spread among squirrels through direct contact, such as during nesting or fighting, or by contact with contaminated environments like shared burrows or nests.
Impact of Mites on Squirrel Health
While many mites cause minimal issues, significant infestations can lead to various health problems. Squirrels with mites often exhibit excessive scratching, biting, and rubbing due to intense itching. This constant irritation can result in visible skin irritation, including redness, scabs, and crusts.
Severe mite infestations can cause mange, characterized by substantial hair loss, often around the face, ears, and tail. Notoedric mange, caused by Notoedres centrifera, is common in squirrels and leads to large patches of fur loss, leaving the skin dark and thickened. Mild infestations may resolve in healthy squirrels, but severe cases can weaken the animal.
Extensive hair loss from mange is detrimental during colder months, compromising the squirrel’s natural insulation and increasing hypothermia risk. Constant scratching can also lead to secondary bacterial infections, exacerbating skin issues and weakening the squirrel’s immune system.
Understanding Mite Transmission to Humans and Pets
Most mites specific to squirrels are highly host-specific and generally do not establish sustained infestations on humans or pets. For instance, mites causing notoedric mange in squirrels are not known to infect domestic animals or humans. However, temporary transfers can occur upon direct contact with an infested squirrel or its nesting materials.
If squirrel mites, especially rodent or sarcoptic mites, temporarily transfer to humans, they may cause transient irritation or “nuisance bites.” These bites result in itchy, red bumps but do not lead to serious health issues or ongoing infestations. Such reactions are self-limiting, resolving within 10 to 14 days as mites cannot complete their life cycle on an unsuitable host.
Pets can occasionally pick up mites from squirrels, especially with direct contact with an infested squirrel or its habitat. While squirrel-specific mites are unlikely to thrive on pets, less host-specific mites like rodent or sarcoptic mites could cause temporary skin irritation or itching. Minimizing direct contact between pets and wild squirrels, and maintaining clean outdoor areas, helps reduce potential transfers.