A to Z of Pests

Bird Mite

Dermanyssus gallinae

Appearance

• 0.6 – 0.7mm long.
• Soft yellow/green body and eight legs.
• When fully fed the body appears bright red.

Lifecycle

• Egg to adult in 7 days (under favourable conditions).
• Adult lives approximately 90 days.

Habits

• Feed on birds blood.
• Favours warm, moist conditions.
• Common in birds nests and poultry houses.
• Capable of reducing bird egg–laying efficiency. In severe cases it may kill young, sick or old birds.
• In domestic dwellings, bird mites may bite people in search of food.