Bird moths are moths that live on birds. They can be found on the bird or in its nests where they feed on its blood. Technically, these mites prefer to feed on the bird, but when the bird dies or the nest is removed, they start looking for an alternative animal to bite. It can be your pet or even you and your family.

Many times I am always asked if bird moths can affect people. Yes they can and in fact they are a nuisance. They itch and bring a lot of discomfort, irritation, itching and probably an infection. You should see a doctor right away if you or any of your family members start to show symptoms of an infection. These signs can be: warmth around the infected area, severe allergic anaphylaxis which has symptoms such as nausea, wheezing, vomiting, nasal congestion, hives and shortness of breath, but this happens in rare cases.

Bird mites can be a nuisance, especially when the birds’ nests are located in the house. They can also be found in houses that have spaces through which they can enter. They are so small that it gives them the advantage of getting into any type of space they can find. Be sure to remove any nests that may be found near light bulbs, vents, attics, or a window air conditioning unit. Bird mites are a particular problem for people around spring, when most chicks hatch and fledge, and nests are abandoned.

One can easily mistake bird mites for other tiny pests like newly hatched ticks or clover mites. They are barely visible to the naked eye but you can’t help but notice them when they move in groups. Its usual color is yellowish green but those that have recently fed on blood are reddish or almost black.

The first step in getting rid of these pests is to first remove the bird nests from their location and dispose of them before proceeding to treat the area. You can call pest control to disinfect the area or do it yourself. Just make sure you wear gloves and long sleeves. Place the nest in a sealed plastic bag before disposal.

If your home is already affected, you can reduce their number by vacuuming them up or picking them up with a damp cloth. Remember to dispose of the vacuum bag. Wash infested bedding thoroughly in hot water. The most important thing is to block or protect all the areas in which the birds’ nests were located so that no more nests are built, therefore no more mite threats.

Bird mites on the human body can be eliminated by taking a hot shower, loofah, and Epsom salt. Rub the moths off your body thoroughly. Wash your hair with a mixture of vinegar and water. Tea tree oil is also very useful. Dry your body with a clean towel and apply a spray deodorant that contains Aluminum Chlorohydrate. This will not only kill the moths, but also repel them. Spray the deodorant on your clothes too and you’ll be safe from bird moths.