What is bird lice?

Note: Please be aware that there is an increase in bird lice activity this year. Do not delay in getting your home treated! 

What are bird lice?

How can bird lice be treated?

How can I prevent a bird lice infestation?

Bird lice, also known as bird mites, are tiny parasites typically appearing during Spring and Summer as the warm, humid weather is ideal for breeding. They are very small, less than a millimetre long and are semi-transparent when not filled with blood, making them virtually impossible to spot.

Bird mites die within 3 weeks without a blood meal, so when birds vacate their nest and leave the lice with nothing to feed on, they will go in search of a new host – more often than not ending up in your home.

The best way to prevent bird lice in your home is to be vigilant in locating and relocating bird nests in your home. Bird nests can often be found in chimneys, roof spaces, porches and roof ledges. When removing nests, ensure you are properly protecting yourself from mites and bacteria by wearing a mask and gloves. As bird lice are so difficult to spot, it’s a good idea to call in the help of a professional pest control technician to help eradicate the lice and remove birds nests if needed.

Bird lice bites cause itching, swelling and raised reddish spots but are not able to transmit any infectious diseases. Bites from bird lice are often mistaken for other parasitic bugs like bed bugs, mosquitoes and fleas, so it is important to identify the type of bug you are dealing with before pursuing treatment. Get in touch with our friendly team at Sydney’s Best Pest Control for free pest identification today.