Red mites (Dermanyssus gallinae) are a common blood-sucking pest in commercial poultry houses. They can cause a great deal of distress to the birds, and can also transmit diseases. There are a number of different treatments available for red mites, but the most effective treatment will depend on the severity of the infestation.

Read our tips for dealing with red mite

In mild cases, thorough cleaning of the poultry unit may be enough to control the infestation. This should include removing all bedding and cleaning all surfaces with a disinfectant. It is also important to seal any cracks or crevices in the walls or roof of the unit to prevent mites from re-entering.

In more severe cases, it may be necessary to use a chemical treatment. There are a number of different chemical treatments available, but it is important to choose one that is safe for poultry. It is also important to follow the instructions on the label carefully to ensure that the treatment is applied correctly.

In addition to chemical treatments, there are a number of natural methods that can be used to control red mites. These methods include using diatomaceous earth, cedar shavings, or neem oil. These methods may not be as effective as chemical treatments, but they can be used as a complementary treatment or to prevent an infestation from occurring in the first place.

Read more: An Overview of different Red Mite Treatment options

How long can red mites survive for?

The lifespan of a poultry mite depends on a number of factors, including temperature, humidity, and food availability. In general, red mites can live for 5 to 17 days, but they can survive for much longer in cold, dry conditions. Red mites can also survive for several months in an unoccupied chicken coop.

The life cycle of a red mite is relatively short. Adult mites lay eggs within 24 hours of feeding. The eggs hatch in 2 to 3 days, and the nymphs go through three developmental stages before becoming adults. The entire life cycle can be completed in as little as 10 days.

What are the key signs of a red mite infestation?

Here are some of the signs that you have red mites:

• Blood spots on eggs. Red mites feed on the blood of poultry, and their droppings can leave blood spots on eggs.

• Pale combs and wattles. Red mites can cause anaemia in poultry, which can lead to pale combs and wattles.

• Irritation and restlessness. Poultry with red mites may be agitated and restless, and they may spend more time feather pecking, scratching and preening.

• Feather loss. Red mites can cause poultry to lose feathers, especially around the vent area.

• Mites in the coop or on the birds. If you see small, reddish-brown insects in the coop or on the birds, they may be red mites.

Here are some tips for preventing red mites in your poultry units:

• Keep the poultry unit clean and dry.

• Seal any cracks or holes in the walls or roof of the unit.

• Remove any debris or vegetation from around the unit that could provide hiding places for mites.

• Inspect the poultry unit regularly for signs of mites.

• Treat any infestations promptly.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent red mites from becoming a problem in your commercial poultry unit.

“Ever since we have kept chickens red mite has always been an issue, as part of management husbandry we have to include the control of Red mite within our flocks. If the mites get a strong hold on our laying flock, this will affect laying performance, egg size, and mortality and can also lead to certain types of salmonella.

Various treatments are available to help, one of which is Exzolt, a product used at the early stages of the laying period via drinking water, once digested and within the chicken’s blood, a red mite will simply die after its first bite. It is recommended to treat with Exzolt twice for optimal results.

Lastly, we have the knockdown sprays, which are used on a regular basis. It is a good idea to change the product every now and then and remember to remove eggs before spraying, in conclusion, as mentioned before the control of Red mites is all part of the management practices of looking after laying hens.

Housing conditions are ideal for the little pests, so pay attention to vermin control, an extra amount of time and money is required to keep little creatures under control but will prevent bigger losses in the future.”

Steve Marriott, Poultry Performance Specialist