Bird Mite Dermanyssus gallinae

Identification
This mite is tiny gray and turns red after feeding.

Location
Uncommon statewide

Size
One thirty second inch

Diet
It feeds on birds.

Habitat
It occurs in nests of sparrows and starlings.

Activity Period
April to September

Behavior
It infests bird nests and may enter homes. It is active in warm months.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in warm seasons.

Population
The population is localized.

History
It has long been present in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It may bite humans when birds leave nests.

Facts
It can survive long periods without feeding.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Blood from birds | Bird nests buildings | Statewide