Two birds with bird mites.
Bird mites, scientifically known as Ornithonyssus bursa, are arthropods too small for humans to see without magnification. They cause a lot of discomfort in the places they infest and create discomfort when they bite people. These types of mites are oval in shape, have eight legs, and are found everywhere in bird nests. If there is a bird’s nest on the roof and some kind of opening leads into the house, the mites can find their way when the birds leave the nest.
Bird mite infestations are common in hot, humid places and are most common in late spring and early summer. This coincides with the time when bird populations reach their maximum size in hot and muggy weather. Mites are most attracted to pigeons, sparrows, starlings, and poultry. If birds nest in a ceiling cavity, the mites may enter the house through broken shingles or cracks in the wood, plaster, or insulation. Bird mites only live for about a week, but they multiply rapidly and infestations can occur very quickly when arthropods enter.
Blood is necessary for these mites to survive and reproduce, and they cannot live long on human blood alone. It is their ability to sense heat, humidity, and carbon dioxide that draws them to people when no other food source is available. Symptoms of bird mite bites include itching or a sore or tingling sensation on the skin. There may also be inflammation and swelling of the reddened skin, which is a reaction to the saliva of this tiny creature. Bird mites can reside anywhere in the house, but they tend to congregate in bedrooms and bathrooms.
Bites are difficult to diagnose, especially since bird mites are very difficult to see and bites are not dangerous unless a severe reaction occurs. Allergic reactions can be treated with antihistamines. Diseases are not transmitted through bird mite bites. Unless something is done to block the entry of the mites, the bites will continue whether they are treated or not.
Eliminating the source of infestation is the only way to ensure elimination of bird mites. The current infestation can be treated with an insecticide spray, but bird mites will continue to get in unless broken wood or shingles, as well as roof openings, are repaired and sealed. Nesting sites should be cleaned and measures taken to prevent birds from reappearing on the roof.