Bird mites are tiny parasites that normally live and feed on the blood of wild or domestic birds, such as pigeons, starlings, or chickens. They are generally harmless to humans, as they cannot reproduce using human blood as a food source. Mites become a household nuisance when their avian hosts abandon a nearby nest, often during late spring or early summer, forcing the mites to seek a new host. Once inside a home, these parasites may bite humans, leading to discomfort and skin irritation.
Identifying Bird Mites and Their Source
The most common bird mites that infest homes are Dermanyssus gallinae (the poultry red mite) and Ornithonyssus sylviarum (the northern fowl mite). These arachnids are minuscule, measuring less than one millimeter long, appearing as tiny, moving specks often compared to walking pepper flakes. They are typically pale or grayish, turning reddish or darker after taking a blood meal. Mites usually migrate indoors from a nearby bird nest located on or in the structure, such as an attic or wall void. The parasites move toward the warmth and carbon dioxide emitted by mammals when their original bird host leaves the nest.
Treating Symptoms on the Skin
Addressing the symptoms of bird mite bites is an important first step toward relief. The bites often manifest as small, red bumps accompanied by intense itching, sometimes with a sensation of something crawling on the skin. Immediately cleaning the affected area by scrubbing the skin in the shower with a washcloth and body wash can help remove any lingering mites.
To manage the discomfort, over-the-counter topical anti-itch creams containing hydrocortisone can be applied to reduce inflammation and irritation. Oral antihistamines are also helpful, as they work systemically to alleviate the allergic reaction and reduce itching. Avoid excessive scratching, as breaking the skin barrier can introduce bacteria and lead to a secondary skin infection. If severe swelling, pain, or signs of infection develop, consulting a healthcare professional for a prescription topical steroid or antibiotic is necessary.
Eliminating Mites from the Environment
Controlling a bird mite problem involves a two-pronged strategy: eliminating the source and thoroughly treating the indoor environment. The initial step is locating and safely removing the source of the infestation, which is almost always an active or abandoned bird nest on the building. Birds like pigeons, starlings, and house sparrows are not federally protected, allowing their nests to be removed at any time if they are causing a pest issue.
Once located, the nest must be removed with caution using protective gear, including gloves, a respirator, and long sleeves, to prevent mites from transferring onto the person performing the removal. After the nest material is bagged and disposed of outside, the area should be cleaned and treated with an appropriate insecticide dust or spray to kill any remaining mites. Following source removal, a deep cleaning of indoor spaces is required to eliminate the migrating parasites.
Deep cleaning must begin with a thorough vacuuming of all affected areas, including carpets, upholstery, curtains, and along baseboards. Using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter is recommended to ensure the tiny mites and their eggs are efficiently captured. The vacuum bag or contents of the canister must be immediately sealed and disposed of outside the home, or the canister cleaned, to prevent the mites from escaping back into the house.
All bedding, clothing, and other washable fabric items in the infested area should be laundered in hot water, ideally above 130°F, and dried on high heat, as heat is effective at killing mites in all life stages. Steam cleaning mattresses, furniture, and carpets with temperatures exceeding 160°F can also instantly kill mites hiding in fabric fibers. For localized treatment, applying food-grade diatomaceous earth lightly along cracks and crevices can help by dehydrating the mites’ exoskeletons.
In cases of severe or widespread infestation, especially when mites are entering through inaccessible areas like wall voids or air ducts, the use of chemical pesticides may be necessary. Household insecticides containing active ingredients like permethrin or pyrethrins are effective against mites when applied to non-living surfaces. If the infestation persists after thorough cleaning and spot treatments, or if the source is in a difficult-to-reach location, contacting a licensed pest control professional is advisable. Professionals have access to specialized equipment and stronger acaricides to ensure complete eradication.
Steps for Long Term Prevention
Once the current infestation has been eradicated, preventative measures are necessary to stop future invasions. A primary focus should be on sealing potential entry points that birds might use to nest or that mites might use to enter the structure. Inspect the exterior of the home, paying close attention to eaves, vents, chimneys, and gaps around utility lines or window frames.
All openings leading into attics, crawl spaces, or wall voids should be sealed with caulk or covered with fine-mesh screening. Installing netting, spikes, or other non-lethal bird deterrent devices on ledges, window sills, and rooflines can discourage birds from building nests near the home. Regular inspections of the property, particularly during the spring nesting season, are important to identify and address any new bird activity before an infestation can take hold.