Bird mites are small, eight-legged parasites that can live on the skin and bite humans. Though tiny, their bites can cause severe itching, irritation, and discomfort. Bird mites typically bite uncovered areas of the body, especially the arms, shoulders, neck, and face.
Common Areas for Bird Mite Bites
Here are some of the most common places on the body that bird mites tend to bite:
- Arms – The arms are often exposed and provide easy access for bird mites to bite. Mites can crawl under sleeves and bite all along the arms.
- Shoulders – Like the arms, the shoulders offer an exposed area that bird mites exploit. Tops with thin straps make the shoulders especially vulnerable.
- Neck – The neck and chest are prime targets, since they are frequently uncovered. Mites often crawl down shirt collars to reach the neck.
- Face – The face has very sensitive skin and is irresistible to mites looking for a meal. Bites often concentrate around the eyes, nose, and lips.
- Legs – Bird mites bite exposed legs, especially around the ankles and calves when people wear shorter pants.
- Feet – Feet left uncovered with open shoes or sandals are easy picking for foraging mites.
Less Common Areas for Bird Mite Bites
Though less frequent, bird mites will bite other areas of the body if given the opportunity:
- Head – If hair is short or pulled back, mites can bite the scalp. Their small size allows them to crawl through hair with ease.
- Hands – Hands are often exposed when people are sitting or resting them on infested surfaces.
- Back – The mid to lower back region is prone to bites if exposed by certain tops or dresses.
- Stomach – The soft skin of the stomach is inviting to mites if revealed.
- Legs – Inner thighs and groin may be bitten when sitting or in bed.
Why Bird Mites Bite Humans
Bird mites need blood to survive and reproduce. They do not actually live on humans but will bite them opportunistically. Some key reasons bird mites bite humans include:
- Loss of natural host – When bird nests are abandoned or removed, mites seek new sources of food.
- Proximity to nests – Nests in roofs, eaves, or exterior walls allow mites easy access to humans.
- Vibrations and warmth – Mites are drawn to the movement and warmth of human bodies.
- CO2 and scents – Carbon dioxide and skin oils attract mites to areas of exposed skin.
- Thin skin – Mites prefer thin skin with accessible blood vessels, like the neck, face, and ankles.
Symptoms of Bird Mite Bites
Bird mite bites often produce the following symptoms:
- Small red bumps similar to mosquito bites
- Intense itching, burning, and skin irritation
- Rashes from excessive scratching
- Sores and scabs from repeated biting
- Dermatitis reactions in sensitive individuals
- Skin discoloration around bite sites
The hands, arms, and feet are often the most impacted. Some people may not react at all to bites, while others can experience severe allergic responses. Bites usually heal within 1-2 weeks if treated properly.
Treating Bird Mite Bites
To help relieve bite symptoms and prevent complications, the following self-care measures are recommended:
- Apply antiseptic creams to reduce itching and infection risk
- Take antihistamines like Benadryl to relieve itching and swelling
- Use hydrocortisone cream to alleviate inflammation
- Avoid scratching to prevent wound infection and scarring
- Apply ice packs to bite sites to ease pain and itchiness
- Keep skin clean and use soothing lotions like aloe vera
See a doctor immediately if bites become infected, you have an extreme reaction, or symptoms don’t improve within a few days. Prescription steroid creams or antibiotics may be prescribed in severe cases.
Preventing Bird Mite Bites
You can reduce your risk of getting bitten by taking these preventive measures:
- Treat bird nests and roosting sites with insecticidal dusts
- Seal any entry points on the home exterior
- Remove abandoned nests and bird roosts
- Vacuum and clean home thoroughly
- Wash clothes at high heat after exposure
- Apply repellents containing DEET when outdoors
- Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks when outside
Treating the infestation source is key. Professional pest control can properly treat nests and infested areas of the home for maximum effectiveness.
Conclusion
Bird mites bite exposed areas of skin in search of a blood meal. The arms, neck, face, and other uncovered body parts are prime targets. Though small, their bites can cause irritation and discomfort. Treating bites promptly and taking preventive measures can help provide relief and stop ongoing attacks. Addressing all infested bird nests and roosting sites is critical to eliminating the mites and avoiding future bites.
