Ihokärsivää

Ihokärsivää, scientific name *Dermanyssus gallinae*, is a common ectoparasite affecting birds, particularly poultry, though it can also infest mammals and humans. It is a small, red mite, often referred to as the chicken mite or red poultry mite. These mites are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, feeding on the blood of their hosts while the birds are roosting. During the day, they hide in cracks and crevices within the poultry housing, such as in nests, perches, and walls.

The life cycle of ihokärsivää is relatively short, typically completed within a week or two under favorable conditions, which include warm temperatures and high humidity. An adult female mite can lay several eggs, and the population can grow rapidly. Infestations can lead to significant health problems for birds, including anemia, reduced egg production, weight loss, and even death in severe cases. The mites themselves are not known to transmit diseases to poultry, but their constant biting causes stress and discomfort.

For humans, ihokärsivää can cause itchy rashes and skin irritation, particularly on exposed areas like arms and legs, as they may enter homes from infested birds or poultry housing. Treatment typically involves thorough cleaning and disinfection of affected housing and the use of insecticides. In poultry, veterinary-approved acaricides are used to control mite populations. Prevention strategies include regular cleaning of bird coops and nests and prompt identification and treatment of any signs of infestation.