Poultry mites are a persistent challenge for farmers, affecting bird health, productivity, and ultimately, profitability. In South Africa, two of the most troublesome mites are the scaly leg mite (Knemidocoptes mutans) and the notorious chicken red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae). Effective control is essential to maintaining a healthy flock and minimizing financial losses.
The Most Common Poultry Mites and How They Spread
Among poultry mites, the red mite is the biggest concern, closely followed by the scaly leg mite, which is particularly prevalent in backyard flocks. Other mites, such as the northern fowl mite (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) and the tropical fowl mite (O. bursa), also pose risks but are less widespread.
Mites spread quickly through direct contact with infested birds, contaminated equipment like egg trays and crates, and even through farm workers moving between poultry houses. Additionally, management practices like “spiking”—introducing young broiler breeder males into an older flock—can inadvertently contribute to mite infestations.
Spotting the Warning Signs Early
Catching a mite infestation early can mean the difference between minor inconvenience and major economic loss. Key symptoms to watch for include:
- Constant pecking and grooming
- Visible black, brown, or red mites on the face
- Feather loss and sores around the eyes and beak
- Weight loss and signs of anemia
- Increased mortality in severe cases
Because red mites are nocturnal, farmers should inspect birds at night and check for signs like mite trails on nest boxes or hidden mites in crevices and feeder legs in the morning.
Effective Treatment Strategies
A successful treatment plan targets both the birds and their environment. Since mites reproduce rapidly, completing their life cycle in just 7 to 14 days, two consecutive treatments are typically needed to eliminate newly hatched mites.
Treatment options include:
- Acaricides in dust or spray form to reach mites on the birds’ skin
- Products containing fluralaner, a highly effective acaricide
- Ivermectin for treating unfeathered skin, particularly in hobby birds
Equally important is treating the poultry environment. Without addressing the housing and surrounding areas, mites can quickly reinfest a flock.
How Mites Impact Poultry Health and Productivity
Mites don’t just make birds uncomfortable—they have serious economic and welfare consequences. Infested birds experience increased stress, leading to:
- Reduced feed and water intake
- Lower egg production
- Higher rejection rates of eggs due to dirt or blood stains
- Disruptions in reproductive performance, affecting fertility
Mite infestations thrive in warm temperatures (25°C–30°C) with humidity levels of 60%–70%, making routine checks and prevention even more critical.
Prevention is the Best Defense
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to mite control. Farmers should prioritize:
- Purchasing mite-free birds from reputable suppliers
- Implementing strict biosecurity measures
- Keeping poultry houses clean and free of mite hiding spots
- Spraying insecticides in known infestation areas
Since red mites can transmit serious poultry diseases like Newcastle disease, avian influenza, and bacterial infections (E. coli and Pasteurella multocida), preventing infestations is also a crucial step in disease control.
Proactive Farm Management for Long-Term Mite Control
Regular cleaning and disinfection of poultry housing is essential. The all-in, all-out system—where litter is removed and houses are heated above 45°C between flocks—has proven effective in eliminating mites. Free-range systems can also benefit from the introduction of natural mite predators, such as predatory mites, which can be reared and released on farms.
Exploring Organic and Alternative Solutions
For farmers looking for natural remedies, several options have shown promising results:
- Diatomaceous earth powder: Works as a natural insecticide
- Essential oils (garlic, neem, thyme, tea tree): Have anti-mite properties
- Heat treatments: Effective in reducing mite populations
Since mite infestations increase corticosterone levels, causing stress and immune suppression, controlling mites is as much an animal welfare issue as an economic one.
The Role of Biosecurity and Resistance Management
Mites often spread through shared equipment, tools, and personnel. Using dedicated tools for each poultry house and sourcing birds from trusted suppliers can reduce infestation risks. Additionally, farmers must be cautious of mite resistance to common treatments. Overuse of pyrethrins and pyrethroids has led to widespread resistance, making it crucial to follow recommended dosages and application guidelines.
A Multi-Pronged Approach for Maximum Impact
Mite infestations result in lower egg quality, reduced hatchability, and decreased marketability. To combat this, farmers should adopt Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, which include:
- Hygiene management
- Regular flock monitoring
- Strategic use of treatment methods
Additionally, emerging research suggests that plant-based essential oils, vaccines, predatory mites, and entomopathogenic fungi could offer new and innovative solutions for mite control.
By combining prevention, early detection, and targeted treatment strategies, poultry farmers can protect their flocks, ensure optimal productivity, and maintain a profitable operation.