Bird Mite

Natural Habitat

Found in bird nests, poultry houses, and occasionally inside homes when birds nest on or near buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate blood-feeders, primarily preying on birds like pigeons, starlings, and chickens.

Behavior Patterns

They are semi-transparent when hungry and turn reddish-brown after a blood meal. When a bird host dies or leaves the nest, they migrate in search of a new host, often entering human dwellings through cracks, vents, or windows.

Risks & Benefits

They can cause intense itching, irritation, and dermatitis in humans from bites. While they cannot complete their life cycle on human blood, they can be a significant nuisance and cause emotional distress. No known benefits; considered a pest.

Identified on: 1/11/2026