Bird Lice or Mite

Natural Habitat

Typically found on domestic and wild birds, poultry houses, bird nests, and occasionally indoors near nest sites.

Diet & Feeding

Strict blood-feeders (mites) or consumers of skin debris and feathers (lice) of avian hosts.

Behavior Patterns

Nachturnal blood feeders that hide in cracks during the day (mites) or permanent residents on the host (lice). They can survive for several weeks without a host.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include skin irritation and dermatitis in humans (the 'incidental host'). In avian hosts, they cause anemia, distress, and reduced egg production.

Identified on: 1/4/2026