https://www.chewy.com/education/bird/health-and-wellness/pet-bird-mites-and-symptoms
*Your bird’s health goes beyond feathers. The Bird Health & Wellness Education Hub offers guidance on signs of illness, grooming basics, avian vet visits, and environmental safety - so you can give your bird a long, happy, and healthy life.
Bird mites are microscopic parasites that feed on the blood of birds and can cause various health issues depending on the species.
They are commonly transmitted through bird to bird contact and may affect areas such as the skin, feathers, and respiratory system.
The 3 most common types include scaly face and leg mites, which burrow into featherless skin around the beak, legs, and feet; air sac mites, which invade the respiratory system; and feather mites, which live on and irritate the skin and feathers.
Signs of infestation vary but may include crusty skin or beak, labored breathing, feather damage, restlessness, or excessive preening. If left untreated, mite infestations can lead to serious complications, including disfigurement or anemia.
Treatment requires veterinary diagnosis and intervention, as there are no safe or effective over the counter or home remedies.
Veterinarians typically prescribe antiparasitic medication such as ivermectin and may recommend treating all birds in a shared living space due to the contagious nature of mites.
Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the bird's environment are necessary to prevent reinfestation, especially removing porous materials where mites may hide.
Preventative measures include maintaining proper hygiene, providing appropriate housing conditions, and quarantining new birds before introducing them to others.
While bird mites are species specific and do not live on humans, prompt treatment is essential as infestations will not resolve on their own.
Chewy editorial team offers helpful insight into the 3 most common types of bird mites and their symptoms, empowering you to recognize the signs early and take prompt action to protect your feathered companion’s health.