In poultry farming, mites are a recurring problem that has a substantial impact on animal health, output, and overall farm profitability. The two most common mites that affect poultry in South Africa are the scaly leg mite (Knemidocoptes mutans) and the chicken red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae). Maintaining a healthy flock and reducing financial losses require effective treatment of these pests.
The poultry red mite is widely regarded as the most notorious of poultry mites in South Africa. This is closely followed by the scaly leg mite, which is particularly common in backyard poultry. Other mites, such as the northern fowl mite (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) and the tropical fowl mite (O. bursa), also affect poultry, though they are of lesser concern. Mites typically spread through direct contact with infested birds, other animals, or inanimate objects such as egg trays and crates. Personnel moving between poultry houses can also contribute to the spread. Additionally, management practices such as spiking—the introduction of young broiler breeder males into an older flock—can facilitate mite dispersion.
Early detection of mite infestations is crucial in preventing severe economic losses. Symptoms of infestation include constant pecking and self-grooming, the presence of black, brown, or red mites on the birds’ faces, feather loss, sores around the eyes and beak, weight loss, and anemia. In severe cases, mortality can occur. Farmers should observe their birds closely for signs of distress, such as abnormal pecking, head shaking, or restlessness. Since red mites are nocturnal, checking birds at night, inspecting nest box crevices, chain feeder legs, and looking for mite trails on nest boxes in the morning can help detect infestations early.
Mite infestations must be treated holistically, taking into account both the birds and their surroundings. Mites have a seven to 14-day life cycle under ideal conditions, thus two treatments are typically required to remove freshly hatched mites. Acaricides in dust or spray form can be effective if they penetrate the birds’ skin. There are also products that contain fluralaner, which is an acaricide and pesticide. Ivermectin can be used to treat unfeathered skin in hobby birds. Ensuring that the environment is treated concurrently is crucial for preventing reinfestation.
Mites have a negative influence on poultry health and productivity because they cause stress, which leads to decreased eating and drinking, reducing egg production. Infested birds may lay their eggs on the floor, leading to higher rejection rates due to dirt or blood stains. Mite infestations are not breed specific; all poultry breeds are susceptible. Warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C, as well as humidity levels of 60% to 70%, are excellent for mite multiplication.
Prevention is still the best way to control mites. Farmers should purchase mite-free birds, implement proper biosecurity, and keep their chicken houses clean. Targeting mite hiding areas and spraying insecticides on birds and trash can help prevent infestations. Red mites are also known to transmit chicken diseases such as Newcastle disease, avian influenza, and bacterial infections including E. coli and Pasteurella multocida. Additionally, they may cause skin irritation in poultry workers.
Regular cleaning and disinfection of poultry housing are essential for mite control. The all-in-all-out system, where litter is removed and houses are heated above 45°C after flock depletion, can be effective in eliminating mites. Free-range systems can benefit from natural mite predators, such as predatory mites, which can be reared in labs and released on farms.
Organic treatments such as diatomaceous earth powder, essential oils from garlic, neem, thyme, and tea tree, and heat treatments have also shown effectiveness against mites. Since mite infestations increase corticosterone levels in birds, indicating stress and immunosuppression, their presence is a significant animal welfare issue.
Biosecurity measures play a vital role in preventing mite infestations. Mites often spread via tools, egg trays, and personnel. Using dedicated tools for each poultry house and sourcing birds from reputable suppliers can help reduce infestation risks. Farmers should also be aware of the potential for mites to develop resistance to common treatments. Overuse and misuse of pyrethrins and pyrethroids have led to widespread resistance, making it essential to follow recommended dosages and application guidelines.
Mite infestations have a significant economic impact since they result in greater rejection of dirty eggs, lower hatchability, and reduced marketability. Feed conversion ratios and body weight are disturbed, and male reproductive activities may be changed, resulting in fertility difficulties. Integrated pest management (IPM) solutions that integrate hygiene management, monitoring, and effective treatment measures are critical for long-term mite control. Treatments used after bird removal, as well as insecticides that target mite eggs, can help to avoid re-infestation.
A recent study proposes that plant essential oils, vaccinations, predator mites, and entomopathogenic fungi may provide novel mite management methods. Poultry farmers may efficiently control mite infestations by combining preventive, early diagnosis, and tailored treatment strategies, which protects their flocks and ensures maximum productivity.
