Bird Mites Concrete Treatment

Bird mites are parasites common to warm climates. Although they generally survive by feeding from bird's blood, they are know to infest homes and resort to feeding off of humans or family pets. If you think you may have a bird mite infection, act quickly, as they reproduce rapidly and can survive weeks without a food source.

What Are Bird Mites?

• Bird mites are oval shaped parasites that live in humid weather conditions. They are generally found where the bird has chosen to build its nest. The infestation usually will occur after the birds have left the nest and the mite has no food source. When this happens, the mite will become mobile, moving indoors through small cracks in walls and gaps in the roof.

Bird Mite Identification

• Bird mites are easily distinguishable from fleas or other common infestations. Although mites can move quickly, they do not jump as fleas do. The adults have four sets of legs while the immature mites only have three. They have the ability to detect heat and carbon dioxide which draws them to the face and groin area of their host. They are more active at night and this is when people usually receive the most bites. Mites can also enter and infect the respiratory system of their host.

Treatment of Infestation

• Identify the source of the infestation. Remove any nests but make sure to wear gloves and a mask. Birds tend to chose high places that are hidden from predators to build their nests. To find the nests, check chimneys, attics, crawl spaces, garages, neighboring trees and basements. Once all nests have been removed, apply insecticide to infested areas.

What Types of Insecticide?

• There are many types of insecticides to chose from but it is important that it is meant to be used indoors. Liquid or spray insecticides can be more effective when you need to apply in high or hard to reach areas. Liquid insecticide can come in aerosol or trigger bottles or in the form of a "bug bomb." Bug bombs are made from liquid insecticides that are set off just before leaving the infected areas. Usually, the space should remain unoccupied for several hours with all windows and doors closed. Dust insecticide generally contains boric acid. To work effectively it must be applied as a thin layer over the infested areas. If the area is large, dust insecticides may be difficult to remove later and difficult to apply to all the necessary surfaces. If the infestation is severe, contact a professional to ensure that the infestation will not return.