Bird Mites – A Hidden Pest That Can Invade Your Home

Bird mites are microscopic, blood-feeding parasites that primarily infest wild birds, poultry, and their nests. While these mites rely on birds for survival, they can quickly become a problem for humans when their primary host is no longer available. When birds leave their nests or die, bird mites will search for an alternative blood source—leading them to invade homes, bite humans, and cause intense irritation.

In Sydney and other parts of Australia, bird mites are a common but often overlooked pest. These tiny creatures can infest homes, crawl onto furniture, bedding, and walls, and create discomfort, allergic reactions, and severe skin irritation. If left untreated, bird mite infestations can spread rapidly, making professional intervention necessary.

At BUGZOFF Pest Control, we provide specialised bird mite control solutions to ensure your home remains safe, comfortable, and mite-free.

Why Are Bird Mites a Problem?

Tiny but Troublesome

• Bird mites are nearly invisible to the naked eye, measuring less than 1mm in size.
• They multiply rapidly, making infestations difficult to control without professional treatment.
• These mites are highly mobile, moving quickly across walls, ceilings, and furniture in search of a new host.

Can Bird Mites Bite Humans?

• While bird mites prefer avian hosts, they can bite humans if birds are not available.
• Bird mite bites cause intense itching, skin irritation, and rashes, often mistaken for flea or bed bug bites.
• Unlike bed bugs, bird mites do not survive long on human hosts, but their bites can lead to severe discomfort.

Where Do Bird Mites Come From?

• Bird mites originate from nests built by pigeons, sparrows, starlings, and other wild birds in:
  • Roof cavities and wall voids
  • Eaves, balconies, and window ledges
  • Barns, sheds, and garages
  • Gutters and chimneys
  • Air conditioning vents and exhaust pipes

How Do Bird Mites Spread in Homes?

• Once bird mites lose access to their host, they spread into homes by:
  • Crawling through cracks, gaps, and vents.
  • Moving along walls, ceilings, and furnishings.
  • Infesting bedding, carpets, curtains, and upholstery.

Common Bird Mite Species in Australia

1. Northern Fowl Mite (Ornithonyssus sylviarum)

• Primary host: Chickens and poultry birds.
• Appearance: Small, brownish mites with rapid movement.
• Habitat: Found in poultry farms, barns, and birdhouses.
• Concerns: Can infest homes near poultry farms and cause skin irritation in humans.

2. Tropical Rat Mite (Ornithonyssus bacoti)

• Primary host: Rats and mice, but can also infest birds and humans.
• Appearance: Tiny, oval-shaped mites with reddish or dark coloration after feeding.
• Habitat: Found in roof cavities, wall voids, and rodent nests.
• Concerns: Often mistaken for bed bugs due to their bites.

3. Poultry Red Mite (Dermanyssus gallinae)

• Primary host: Poultry birds, pigeons, and wild birds.
• Appearance: Red when engorged with blood, otherwise pale grey.
• Habitat: Hides in cracks and crevices during the day and feeds at night.
• Concerns: Causes anaemia and stress in birds and can bite humans if hosts are unavailable.

Signs of a Bird Mite Infestation

Since bird mites are tiny and difficult to detect, their presence is often identified through their bites and movement inside the home. Look for these signs:

• Crawling Mites – Bird mites move quickly on walls, ceilings, furniture, and bedding.
• Unexplained Bites – Bites appear as red, itchy welts, particularly on the neck, arms, and face.
• Increased Itching at Night – Bird mites become more active in warm conditions and tend to bite at night.
• Tiny Dark Specks – Mites or their droppings can be found on bed sheets, furniture, and floors.
• Abandoned Bird Nests Nearby – If birds have nested in or around your home, there is a risk of mites spreading indoors.

Health Risks & Problems Caused by Bird Mites

1. Skin Irritation & Allergic Reactions

• Bird mite bites cause intense itching, red welts, and skin inflammation.
• Some individuals may develop severe allergic reactions, including asthma and rhinitis.

2. Sleep Disturbance

• Bird mites become more active at night, leading to constant itching and restless sleep.

3. Infestation of Indoor Spaces

• Bird mites can spread throughout the home, infesting furniture, carpets, bedding, and clothing.

4. Stress & Anxiety

• The presence of crawling mites, constant itching, and sleepless nights can lead to psychological distress and anxiety.

How to Prevent & Eliminate Bird Mites

1. Remove Bird Nests & Infestation Sources

• Inspect roof voids, eaves, gutters, and vents for bird nests.
• Remove abandoned nests safely to prevent mites from spreading indoors.

2. Deep Cleaning & Vacuuming

• Vacuum carpets, bedding, and furniture thoroughly to remove mites.
• Wash bed linens and clothing in hot water to kill mites.
• Use a steam cleaner on mattresses and upholstery.

3. Seal Entry Points

• Close gaps in windows, walls, and ceilings to prevent mites from entering.
• Install bird-proofing measures, such as bird spikes, netting, and deterrents.

4. Use Insecticidal Treatments

• Mite sprays and residual insecticides can help eliminate infestations.
• Dust treatments applied to wall voids and roof cavities can prevent mites from spreading.

5. Professional Bird Mite Control

• DIY solutions may not be enough for severe infestations.
• Professional treatment ensures complete eradication and prevention.

How BUGZOFF Can Help with Bird Mite Infestations

At BUGZOFF Pest Control, we specialise in eliminating bird mites from homes, businesses, and poultry farms.

Our Bird Mite Control Services Include:

• Thorough inspections to locate infestation sources.
• Safe removal of bird nests and exclusion measures.
• Targeted insecticidal treatments for long-term bird mite elimination.
• Sealing of entry points to prevent reinfestation.
• Preventative strategies to keep birds from nesting near your home.
• Ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure a mite-free environment.

Don’t Let Bird Mites Take Over Your Home – Act Now!

Bird mites can spread quickly, causing intense itching, stress, and discomfort. Ignoring the problem will only make infestations worse. If you suspect bird mites in your home, immediate action is crucial.

At BUGZOFF Pest Control, we use proven, professional treatments to eliminate bird mites, remove infestation sources, and prevent future outbreaks.

Contact BUGZOFF today for a professional bird mite inspection and customised treatment plan.