Mites in Birds: What They Are and Why You Should Care

Finding tiny specks moving on your feathered friend can be alarming, but most bird mites are harmless if you act fast. These little pests feed on skin debris or blood, depending on the species, and they love warm, cramped spaces like cages or nests.

How to Spot Mites on Your Birds

The first sign is usually a restless bird that fluffs its feathers more than usual. Look for tiny white or reddish dots near the beak, eyes, or wing joints. If you shake the bird gently over a white sheet of paper, you might see the mites drop like specks of dust.

Another clue is scaly skin on the legs or around the vent. Mites can cause itching, so you may notice your bird scratching more often or pecking at its own feathers. In severe cases, feather loss and thinning plumage appear.

Effective Ways to Get Rid of Bird Mites

The quickest fix is a thorough cleaning routine. Remove all perches, toys, and food dishes; wash them with hot, soapy water. Soak the cage bedding in a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) for 10 minutes, then rinse well.

For the birds themselves, a mild acaricide spray designed for avian use works best. Apply it directly to the skin and feathers, following the label’s dosage instructions. Always give your bird a break from the spray after 24 hours before using any other medication.

If you keep multiple birds, treat them all at once. Mites spread quickly, so missing one bird can reignite the problem. Also, check surrounding areas like lofts or barns for hidden nests where mites might be hiding.

Natural options include diatomaceous earth sprinkled lightly on perches and nesting material. The powder scratches the mites’ exoskeleton, drying them out without harming the bird when used sparingly.

After treatment, keep an eye on your birds for a couple of weeks. A few stray mites may still appear, but numbers should drop dramatically. If you notice persistent itching or feather loss, consult a vet who can prescribe stronger medication.

Prevent future outbreaks by maintaining a clean environment. Replace cage liners weekly, wash hands before handling new birds, and avoid reusing old nesting material from unknown sources.

Lastly, remember that wild birds can bring mites into your backyard coop. Install fine mesh screens on windows and doors, and limit contact between wild and domestic flocks whenever possible.