Quick Summary
Bird mites are small parasites that can infest homes by hitchhiking on birds. They bite and cause itchy skin reactions. The key to getting rid of bird mites is using insecticides labeled for bird mite control and thorough cleaning. Some effective treatment options include:
- Pyrethrin insecticides – natural pyrethrins kill mites on contact
- Permethrin – synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that kills mites
- Desiccant dusts like diatomaceous earth – absorbs waxy coating on mites to dry them out
- Ivermectin – kills mites with paralysis
- Benzyl benzoate – dissolves waxy coating on mites
- Heat treatment – heating infested areas to at least 113°F kills all stages of mites
- Thorough vacuuming and cleaning – removes mites and eggs from environment
The key is using a combination approach of insecticides, thorough cleaning, and heat treatment to kill mites and eggs and prevent re-infestation. Fast-acting sprays like pyrethrins provide quick knockdown while more persistent treatments like permethrin provide longer residual control.
What Are Bird Mites?
Bird mites are tiny arachnids that live on the bodies of birds and feed on their blood, skin, and secretions. The two main species that infest homes are:
- Northern fowl mite – mostly infests chickens and wild birds
- Tropical fowl mite – primarily infests sparrows, pigeons, starlings
Bird mites are only about 1 mm long and can be difficult to see with the naked eye. When birds nest near homes, mites can crawl through cracks and crevices to get inside. Once inside, they will bite humans and pets before dying off within a few days without a bird host.
Bites cause small, itchy red welts on the skin. People may not even notice the mites themselves and attribute the itchy reactions to other causes like mosquito bites. Large infestations can cause dermatitis with severe itching, sores, and skin irritation in people or animals bitten.
Getting rid of bird mites requires killing the mites already in the home and preventing new ones from getting inside. This involves insecticide treatments and thoroughly cleaning infested areas.
How to Kill Bird Mites Quickly
To get rid of bird mites fast, you need insecticides that can kill them quickly on contact. Some effective treatment options include:
Pyrethrin Insecticides
Pyrethrins are natural insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers. Pyrethrin sprays, foggers, and concentrates can provide quick knockdown and kill bird mites on contact. These effects only last about 3-4 days before reapplication is needed. Some trade names to look for include Pyganic and PT 565 Plus XLO.
Permethrin
Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that kills bird mites. It provides longer residual activity than natural pyrethrins, lasting about 2 weeks after application. Permethrin is available under trade names like Delta Dust and Eliminator Multi-Purpose Insecticide Concentrate.
Desiccant Dusts
Diatomaceous earth and silica aerogel dusts are desiccants that can kill bird mites. The fine particles work by absorbing the outer waxy coating on mites, causing them to dry out and die. Apply these dusts in cracks, crevices, and attic spaces where mites may hide.
Ivermectin
Ivermectin is a medication that paralyzes and kills mites. Livestock ivermectin products are available as sprays, topical solutions, or injections. Off-label use can help eliminate a bird mite infestation when applied to infested areas.
Benzyl Benzoate
Benzyl benzoate is designed to kill certain mites that afflict humans. It works by dissolving the waxy coating on the mites’ exoskeleton, leading to dehydration and death. While not labeled specifically for bird mites, it is effective according to anecdotal reports.
Heat Treatment
Heating infested rooms or entire homes to temperatures above 113°F kills all stages of bird mites including adults, nymphs, larvae, and eggs. Maintain these high temperatures for several hours, using propane heaters and fans. This is the best way to fully eradicate an existing infestation.
Cleaning to Remove Mites and Nests
In addition to chemical treatments, thorough cleaning is essential to eliminate bird mite infestations. This includes:
- Vacuuming – Use a powerful vacuum to remove mites from carpets, floors, furniture, curtains, and other surfaces.
- Washing – Machine wash any bedding, linens, or clothing in contact with mites in hot water and dry on high heat.
- Sealing – Seal cracks, crevices, and openings that allow entry. Use steel wool, copper mesh, caulk, expandable foam.
- Bird Removal – Remove any bird nests near the home. Block access to potential nesting sites like roof eaves, vents, and openings.
- Discard Infested Items – Get rid of mattresses, furniture, or other items too heavily infested to clean.
These measures are necessary to eliminate hiding spots and prevent ongoing exposure after treating with insecticides. Fumigating the entire home may be required for severe, embedded infestations.
Prevention Tips
Prevent future bird mite issues by:
- Excluding birds from nesting on or near the home
- Installing steel mesh, nets, or wire over potential bird nesting spots
- Regularly cleaning areas near bird nests such as gutters and roofs
- Sealing any entry points like small cracks and crevices
- Removing any old bird nests or droppings near the home
Discouraging birds from nesting near the house will help avoid introducing new mites. Tackling an infestation at first signs with thorough cleaning and insecticides can help avoid larger, more stubborn bird mite problems.
When to Call a Professional
For severe infestations, calling a pest control professional may be the best option. Companies have access to stronger insecticides and application methods. They can also identify the exact mite species to ensure proper treatment. Professionals can use techniques like fumigation of the whole home to fully eliminate entrenched bird mite populations.
Conclusion
Bird mites can quickly become a nuisance when they bite humans after abandoning bird nests. Fast-acting sprays containing pyrethrins or permethrin can kill mites on contact. Ivermectin, benzyl benzoate, and desiccant dusts also help eliminate infestations. Thorough cleaning and heat treatments ensure no mites or eggs survive. Preventing bird nesting near the home provides the best long-term solution against bird mites invading living spaces. Calling in a pest control expert may be required for severe, hard to control infestations. With a combination of insecticides, cleaning, and prevention, bird mites can be banished from a home for good.