Bird Mite (or Bird Louse)

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in bird nests (sparrows, pigeons, starlings), chicken coops, and occasionally indoors near nest sites.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate ectoparasites that feed on the blood of birds; they may bite humans if their bird hosts leave the nest.

Behavior Patterns

They are most active at night and can move quickly. They often migrate into homes through vents or windows once bird fledglings leave a nearby nest.

Risks & Benefits

While they cannot survive or reproduce on human blood, their bites cause intense itching, irritation, and potential secondary skin infections from scratching.

Identified on: 2/9/2026