Parasitic red mites tend to seek out birds as ‘hosts,’ rather than mammals, because they have a relatively high body temperature compared to the rest of the animal world. And, crested birds, such as cockatiels and cockatoos are especially attractive to these mites because the area at the base of the crest feathers holds a good reservoir of blood, and allows them to source a rich blood supply both quickly and easily.

But, if conditions are right, any parrots kept outside could potentially fall victim to a mite infestation, and it is therefore essential at the beginning of each breeding season, and again at the end, that steps be taken to prevent red mite being drawn to our aviaries, taking a hold, and catching us unaware. A red mite infestation poses a seriously debilitating health risk to our birds, and everything possible should be done to protect them.

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