Ornithonyssus

Also known as:

The Northern mite or Northern feather mite

The Ornithonyssus mite is closely related to the Dermanyssus mite. They are surface mites that occur in caged birds and poultry.

• Hairy

• Spends entire life cycle on the host

• Causes feathers to become matted and severe scabbing can develop
  • Scabs particularly seen around the vent

• Decreases egg production

• Grey or black discolouration of feathers when large numbers of mites are present