There are several species of mites called bird mites. These include the northern fowl mite (very common), the chicken mite, the American bird mite and many others. These mites are parasites on birds and are usually found on the birds or in their nests. Thus, under normal circumstances, bird mites go unnoticed. However, on occasion, bird mites wander away from the bird nests and are found indoors as accidental invaders.
Migration by bird mites is common in late spring when the baby birds are leaving the nest. Mites that migrate away from the nests may be found anywhere in houses and buildings, but are most abundant in the vicinity of nests that were built on or in the house. Sparrows, starlings and pigeons are the birds most often associated with bird mite infestations in buildings.
Bird mites can bite humans but are not a health threat. They are mostly a nuisance and annoyance. Bird mites do not attack nor harm stored foods, plants or household furnishings. They will probably infest pet birds.