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What are Red Mites?

Dorothy Bland
Dorothy Bland

Dermanyssus gallinae is the scientific name for the common red mite, a species of parasitic mites that feeds by sucking on the blood of birds. These mites can affect any species of birds, including household pets. Poultry, however, especially chickens and turkeys, appear to be the parasites' favorite prey. Due to their believed preference for poultry, they may sometimes be called the poultry red mite or chicken mite. Sometimes the term red mite might also be used to refer to other species of mites that are red in appearance, such as the European red mite.

Red mites are ectoparasites, meaning they do not live inside their host but feed by attaching to their skin. In fact, these mites spend most of their time separate from the host and can actually survive for months without feeding. Chicken mites tend to hide in bird nests or along cracks and crevices within chicken coops, birdcages, and other structures. If red mites are in the household, mites may get into the carpeting, furniture, and bedding, practically any dark area where they can avoid sunlight. At nighttime, these nocturnal mites come out to suck blood from the host, and then they hide again, mating and laying eggs.

Red mites are ectoparasites, meaning they do not live inside their host but feed by attaching to their skin.
Red mites are ectoparasites, meaning they do not live inside their host but feed by attaching to their skin.

Typically measuring between 0.02 to 0.04 of an inch (approximately 0.5 to 1 millimeters) in length, red mites may be barely visible to the naked eye as moving specs of dirt. Most of the time, however, they may not be identifiable without magnification, as they generally appear opaque until after feeding. Once engorged with blood, these mites will appear bright red in appearance.

Chicken mites hide in poultry cages.
Chicken mites hide in poultry cages.

Mites usually feed for less than an hour at a time and normally only need to feed several times a week. The blood that they ingest is required for reproduction, and within 24 hours of the first feeding an adult female red mite is ready to lay eggs. The life cycle for red mites, which goes from egg to adulthood, can be completed in less than one week, meaning populations of red mites can build up rapidly when control measures are not used.

Although red mites prefer feeding off of birds, they sometimes bite humans.
Although red mites prefer feeding off of birds, they sometimes bite humans.

Birds being bitten by a few red mites might appear restless and may be seen trying to rub or itch irritations on the skin. When the infestation is large, however, weight loss may occur, and birds might become anemic from the large amount of blood lost through mite bites. In chickens, a drop in egg production may also occur. For young birds, the infestation may be fatal. Although not considered likely, it is also probable that these mites may transmit diseases to their avian hosts.

One way of determining if an infestation of red mites is occurring is to hang a piece of white cloth or a sheet over a cage at night. The next morning, the material can be inspected for mites. As they are likely to have recently fed, they should appear as small red specks. Mite droppings may also be identifiable as small black specks.

Although it is not possible for these biting mites to reproduce when feeding on non-avian hosts, they can feed off mammals, including humans. Usually this is only a problem for poultry farmers or others who work with and live near infested birds. When mites feed off on nesting birds, however, they may become more of a nuisance. Once these nesting birds mature and leave the nest, these mites may seek out alternate hosts by invading nearby homes or other buildings.

As red mites are hearty and tend to adapt to practically any environment, red mite elimination and control should be done as soon as mites are identified. Usually the birds being affected and their environment will both need treatment. Once the birds are removed, poultry houses and cages often need to be rigorously cleaned and disinfected. A steam cleaner or pressure washer may also be useful for cleaning into any crevices or cracks where mites are hiding and making certain they are washed away. Use of miticides, pesticides specifically designed to kill mites, can also be used for treatment and regular prevention once the mites are eradicated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are red mites?

Red mites are tiny arachnids belonging to the family Trombiculidae. They are known for their bright red color and microscopic size, often requiring a magnifying glass to be seen clearly. These mites are ectoparasites, meaning they live on the surface of their hosts, including humans, birds, and reptiles, to feed on skin cells or blood.

Where are red mites commonly found?

Red mites thrive in warm, moist environments and are commonly found in outdoor settings such as gardens, forests, and grassy fields. They are particularly prevalent in areas with dense vegetation where they can easily attach to passing hosts. During their larval stage, they are more likely to come into contact with humans and animals.

How do red mites affect humans and animals?

When red mites attach to humans or animals, they can cause skin irritation known as trombiculosis. The affected area may become itchy, red, and inflamed. In animals, particularly poultry, red mites can lead to decreased egg production, weight loss, and in severe cases, anemia or death, according to studies on poultry health.

Can red mites transmit diseases?

While red mites are primarily a nuisance due to the itching and discomfort they cause, they are not known to transmit diseases to humans. However, they can carry and spread diseases among birds and reptiles. It's important to manage mite infestations in poultry to prevent potential disease outbreaks in flocks.

How can one prevent red mite infestations?

Preventing red mite infestations involves maintaining clean living environments for pets and livestock, regularly checking for signs of mites, and using acaricides or natural remedies like diatomaceous earth. For humans, using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing when in mite-infested areas can reduce the risk of bites.

What are the best ways to treat red mite infestations?

Treating red mite infestations requires a multifaceted approach. For animals, this may include thorough cleaning of habitats, applying appropriate acaricides, and improving coop or kennel designs to prevent mite habitats. For humans, over-the-counter treatments like antihistamines and corticosteroid creams can alleviate itching, while washing affected clothing and bedding in hot water can eliminate mites.

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    • Red mites are ectoparasites, meaning they do not live inside their host but feed by attaching to their skin.
      By: Gucio_55
      Red mites are ectoparasites, meaning they do not live inside their host but feed by attaching to their skin.
    • Chicken mites hide in poultry cages.
      By: emirkoo
      Chicken mites hide in poultry cages.
    • Although red mites prefer feeding off of birds, they sometimes bite humans.
      By: Dmitry Lobanov
      Although red mites prefer feeding off of birds, they sometimes bite humans.