Bird and Mammal Mites
Bird and mammal mites are often encountered as
household invaders during the late spring and summer
months. Mites (order Acarina) can be distinguished from
their insect relatives by the two body regions
(cephalothorax and abdomen), sucking mouthparts, lack of
antennae, and four pairs of legs (as adults). The mite
life cycle generally consists of an egg stage, a larval
stage, one or more nymphal stages, and an adult stage.
The entire life cycle requires 1 to 6 weeks (2-3 on the
average) for completion.
Bird Mites; the chicken mite and the northern fowl mite
are both ectoparasites of poultry and other domestic
fowl, as well as many species of wild birds. These mites
are commonly found in buildings where bird nests are
located around the eaves or in attics. The life cycle is
very short, and if conditions are favorable, complete
development may occur in 7 days.
Mammal Mites: several species of mites associated with
mammals may be found in homes. These include the house
mouse mite, the rodent mite and the rat mites. All of
these mites are associated with wild or domestic rodent
populations. The life cycle of these mites generally
requires 17 to 23 days. If these mites are found they
almost certainly indicate the presence of a rodent
infestation in or around the building.
Other mites found in the home, in addition to the
bird and mammal mites, include the house dust mites,
clover mites, grain mites and roach mites. Because of the
varied habits of the mites found in buildings, it is
important to have any mite pest accurately identified.
Integrated Bird & Mammal Mite Management
Although the normal host animals of biting mites are
birds and rodents, they will bite humans. This occurs
most frequently in the late spring and summer when mite
populations are high and when young birds and rodents
begin to leave their nests. The hungry mites wander away
from these nests in search of food and may be found
climbing about on walls, ceilings and bedding. The bites
of these mites cause itching, swelling and raised,
reddish spots on the skin.
Although standard insect repellents containing
diethyl meta-toluamide (deet) will prevent these mites
from biting, longterm, continuous use of these products
is not recommended.
Effective control of bird and mammal mites is
achieved by:
(1) locating and removing bird or rodent nests;
(2) treating infested areas with an appropriate
pesticide.
The first step is to locate all bird and/or rodent
nests. Search for nests around eaves, in attics, in
chimneys, in wall voids, in basements, and around porches
and foundations. After locating any nests, but BEFORE
removing them, treat with chlorpyrifos. Now, remove any
nests and dispose of them (away from the building!).
Immediately after doing so, thoroughly treat the infested
area. Additional spot treatments in areas where mites are
seen wandering (like baseboards) may be helpful. Be sure
to initiate any structural changes or sanitary measures
needed to prevent re-infestation by birds or mammals.
For a complete listing of suggested control options
for all home, yard and garden insect pests contact your
local Extension Service, found under local government in
the phone book.
Read and follow instructions on the pesticide label.
Heed all warnings. Check with your physician if you have
any concerns regarding your personal health.