Bird mites are parasites that can be found on any pet bird or avian species
. They spread from bird to bird and quickly become a serious issue both for your pet bird and your home.
Bird mites are very common and can be fairly easily treated, but finding the presence of the mites as soon as possible is very important. Mites that are left on a bird will continue to multiply until they drop from the bird and move from the cage into certain areas of your home. Mites will often burrow in carpeting or bed sheets and blankets. These mites will also bite people. If a full infestation of your home occurs, the bites on you and your family members can be irritating and unsightly and you will at that point need to treat your whole home rather than just the pet bird.
Signs and Symptoms of Mites on Pet Birds
It is important to check your bird frequently for mites. This requires you to gently push up feathers on your bird and look for mites. The mites will scatter very quickly, but you should be able to see at least a few. If you see your bird engaging in any of the following behaviors, it is vital that you immediately check for mites: Visible mites on the bird--there are certain mites such as red mites which can actually be seen on the bird itself. In more severe cases, there may be evidence of feather damage
There are a number of treatment options for mites, but you should always consult with an experienced veterinarian first. Buying any over the counter product is a very bad idea as many of these products contain chemicals that may be poisonous to your bird.