The Lifecycle and Behaviour of Red Poultry Mites: How to Stay Pest-Free

Red poultry mites are known for their parasitic behavior, primarily feeding on the blood of a variety of bird species. While they are most commonly associated with chickens, their host range is broader. In fact, Dermanyssus gallinae can feed on most domestic bird species (including ducks, geese, turkeys), as well as birds kept as pets (as pigeons, parrots, canaries, finches), and also various wild bird species, (such as sparrows and starlings) can harbour red mites, and potentially introduce them to poultry farms.

The Life Cycle of Red Mites

Red mites have a complex lifecycle that includes several stages: egg, larva, protonymph, deutonymph, and adult. The entire lifecycle can be completed in as little as seven days under optimal conditions, making rapid population growth a significant challenge for poultry farmers.

Let’s see, what exactly the lifecycle of red mites is, and at which stages can farmers take steps most efficiently!

The life cycle of red mites is the following:

1. Egg Stage: Female red mites lay eggs in hidden crevices within the poultry house. These eggs hatch in 1-2 days, depending on environmental conditions. Each female can lay up to 8 eggs after each blood meal, and with optimal conditions, she can produce up to 100 eggs in her lifetime. The number of eggs laid can be substantial, contributing to the rapid population increase.
2. Larval Stage: Upon hatching, larvae are non-feeding and molt within a day or two into protonymphs. During this stage, they are highly vulnerable and need to quickly find shelter.
3. Nymphal Stages: The protonymph and deutonymph stages are feeding stages. Mites typically feed on the blood of host birds during the night, causing irritation, stress, and anaemia in poultry. These stages last several days, during which the mites mature and continue to develop.
4. Adult Stage: After two nymphal stages, mites reach adulthood. Adult females need to feed on blood before laying eggs, thus perpetuating the cycle. Adult mites can live for several months, and under optimal conditions, they can lay eggs continuously.

This rapid and stealthy lifecycle underscores the need for vigilant monitoring and timely intervention in poultry farms.

Behaviour and Habitat Preferences of Red Mites

Red mites are nocturnal animals, emerging at night to feed on the blood of poultry and hiding during the day in cracks, crevices, and other sheltered locations. Their behaviour and habitat preferences make them particularly challenging to control, because of the following reasons:

1. Nocturnal Feeding: Red mites feed on the birds' blood at night, causing anaemia, stress, and reduced productivity. Daytime inspections may miss active mites, leading to underestimation of infestations. The red mites' nocturnal habits make detection challenging but also provide an opportunity for targeted interventions during their active periods.

2. Hiding Places: During the day, red mites hide in small cracks, crevices, nest boxes, and under manure. Their preference for hidden, inaccessible areas complicates eradication efforts. Thus, regular inspections and targeted cleaning of these areas are essential for effective red mite-control.

3. Temperature and Humidity: Red mites thrive in warm, humid conditions. EU poultry farms, with their often controlled environments, provide ideal conditions for red mite proliferation. Understanding these environmental preferences can help farmers adjust conditions to deter mite infestations. For instance, reducing humidity and keeping temperatures in ranges less favourable to red mite reproduction can be effective strategies.

How to Control Red Mites? Challenges and Strategies

The resilience and rapid reproduction of red mites necessitate integrated pest management strategies that combine multiple control methods, such as the following methods:

1. Chemical Controls: While effective in the short term, chemical treatments often lead to resistance. Moreover, EU regulations on pesticide use demand safer, more sustainable alternatives. Several chemicals previously used for controlling red mites, such as organophosphates (e.g., dichlorvos) and carbamates (e.g., carbaryl), have been banned due to their environmental impact and potential health risks. Additionally, certain pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin) and neonicotinoids (e.g., imidacloprid) have become less effective due to the development of resistance in red mite populations. Regular rotation of different chemical classes and strict adherence to usage guidelines are crucial to delay resistance and ensure the effectiveness of treatments. It is important to integrate chemical controls with other management strategies to maintain efficacy and comply with EU regulations.

2. Biological Controls: Introducing natural predators or pathogens specific to red mites can reduce populations. For example, predatory mites like Androlaelaps casalis have shown promise in controlling red mite populations. This method was first applied in the late 1990s and early 2000s as part of an integrated pest management approach. Additionally, fungal pathogens such as Beauveria bassiana are being researched for their potential in biological control, with studies and applications beginning to gain traction in the past decade. These biological control methods are becoming more widespread and are recognized for their effectiveness in the EU, particularly as farmers seek sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical treatments. The growing body of research and field trials supports their use as a viable component of comprehensive pest management strategies.

3. Environmental Management: Adjusting temperature and humidity levels in poultry houses can make the environment less favourable for mites. Studies suggest that maintaining a temperature below 20°C (68°F) and keeping relative humidity levels below 50% can significantly reduce mite populations while remaining favourable for poultry health. Regular cleaning and disinfection of housing facilities are also crucial. Removing organic debris and maintaining a clean environment reduce the breeding grounds for mites. Additionally, ensuring proper ventilation and using dehumidifiers can help maintain these optimal conditions, thereby supporting both poultry health and effective mite control.

4. Physical Barriers: Sealing cracks and crevices where mites hide can reduce infestation sources. Additionally, using mite-proof materials for perches and nest boxes can help minimize hiding places. Materials such as stainless steel, plastic, and coated metal are considered mite-proof due to their smooth surfaces that prevent mites from finding suitable hiding spots. Regular maintenance and repairs of housing structures are necessary to keep these barriers effective. Ensuring that all joints, corners, and edges are sealed and smooth can further discourage mite infestations, contributing to a healthier environment for poultry.

5. Natural and Organic Treatments: The EU's emphasis on organic farming has spurred interest in natural treatments. Essential oils, diatomaceous earth, and other natural products can be effective in controlling mites without the drawbacks of chemical treatments. One promising product in this category is DERMANYGUARD liquid, which is gaining recognition as a potential preventive measure against red mites. DERMANYGUARD is an oral liquid containing herbal extracts only, which acts by being absorbed through the digestive tract of the animals. The blood of poultry treated with DERMANYGUARD changes its taste and digestibility, causing the mites to stop sucking blood, and thus breaking the life cycle of the mites. In the absence of a suitable host, the mites die and their further reproduction is disrupted. These alternatives can be integrated into routine management practices to provide ongoing control, ensuring a safer and more sustainable approach to pest management in poultry farms.

    

   Chemical agents traditionally used for red mite control can have significant health and environmental effects. Many of these chemicals can leave residues in poultry products, potentially impacting human health. Additionally, they can contribute to the development of pesticide resistance in mite populations, making future control efforts more difficult. The environmental impact includes contamination of soil and water sources, affecting non-target organisms and leading to broader ecological imbalances.

   In contrast, natural products like DERMANYGUARD offer several benefits. They typically have no side-effects on both the poultry and the environment. By using herbal extracts and other natural compounds, these treatments avoid chemical residues, making them safer for workers as well. Furthermore, natural products often have a lower risk of causing resistance in mite populations, ensuring their continued effectiveness over time. These alternatives can be integrated into routine management practices to provide ongoing control, ensuring a safer and more sustainable approach to pest management in poultry farms.

Red Mite Control: Recent Research Findings

Recent studies have provided deeper insights into red mite behaviour and control methods. Let’s see, what these research finding are!

1. Behavioural Studies: Research has shown that red mites are highly attracted to certain pheromones released by stressed or injured birds. Understanding these attractants can lead to the development of more effective traps and monitoring systems. Pheromone-based traps can help in early detection and population control.

2. Resistance Mechanisms: Studies have highlighted the genetic mechanisms behind red mites' resistance to chemical treatments. This knowledge can inform the development of new, alternative treatments. Continued research into resistance management is essential for sustainable control strategies.

3. Impact of Housing Design: Research has demonstrated that the design of poultry housing significantly affects mite infestations. Housing systems that minimize hiding places and allow for easier cleaning can reduce mite populations. Innovations in housing design, such as smooth surfaces and removable components, facilitate thorough cleaning and disinfection.

4. Biosecurity Measures: Effective biosecurity measures, including quarantine procedures for new birds and equipment, regular monitoring, and rapid response to infestations, have been shown to significantly reduce mite populations. Comprehensive biosecurity protocols prevent the introduction and spread of mites within and between farms.

Practical Applications for EU Poultry Farms

Integrating these research findings into practical applications can significantly improve red mite control on EU poultry farms:

1. Regular Monitoring: Implementing regular, thorough inspections, particularly at night, can help detect early infestations and allow for timely intervention. Monitoring systems should be part of a routine management schedule. Various monitoring appliances can aid in this process, such as sticky traps, mite detection papers, and electronic mite counters. These tools help in identifying the presence and density of mites, allowing for a targeted and timely response to infestations.

2. Enhanced Cleaning Protocols: Regular cleaning and disinfection, focusing on potential hiding spots, can reduce mite populations. Using high-pressure steam or hot water can help eliminate mites in hard-to-reach areas. Frequent and thorough cleaning minimizes the risk of infestations.

3. Improved Housing Design: Retrofitting existing housing with mite-proof materials and designs can minimize hiding places and make cleaning more effective. New constructions should incorporate these design principles from the start. Designing housing with ease of cleaning and maintenance in mind can significantly reduce mite harbourage.

4. Biosecurity Protocols: Stringent biosecurity measures can prevent the introduction and spread of red mites. These measures include:

• Controlling Access to Poultry Houses: Limiting the entry of visitors and non-essential personnel to poultry houses can reduce the risk of bringing in mites from external sources. Establishing controlled entry points and requiring clean clothing and footwear changes can minimize contamination.

• Communication and Collaboration: The proximity to mite-infested farms can also place poultry flocks at risk. Mites can spread through close proximity or shared resources like water sources. Communicating and collaborating with neighbouring farms helps coordinate pest management efforts. Sharing information about mite infestations and control measures can help reduce the overall risk in the area. Also, it is advisable to participate in local agricultural support networks or cooperatives that provide resources, information, and assistance for managing pest infestations. If possible, ensure that water sources are not shared with neighbouring farms. Use covered or enclosed water systems to prevent contamination by wild birds or other animals. Store feed in secure, enclosed areas to prevent contamination by mites from neighbouring farms. Regularly inspect and clean feed storage areas.

• Disinfecting Equipment and Personnel: Farm workers and visitors can inadvertently transport mites on their clothing, footwear, or equipment. If biosecurity measures are lax, mites can easily be carried from one area to another. Shared or second-hand equipment, cages, or supplies can harbour red mites. Bringing these items into a poultry facility without proper cleaning and disinfection can introduce mites to the flock. Regularly disinfecting equipment, tools, and vehicles that enter the poultry houses is essential. Farm workers should also follow strict hygiene protocols, including washing hands, changing clothes, and disinfecting footwear before and after entering the facilities.

• Isolating New Birds: One of the most common ways red mites spread is through the introduction of infested birds into a flock. Birds purchased from markets, other farms, or even those given as gifts can carry mites. Quarantining new birds for a period before introducing them to the existing flock can help ensure they are free of mites and other pests. This isolation period allows for monitoring and treatment if necessary.

• Buying Reliable Bedding and Feed: Mites can be transported in bedding materials or feed that have been contaminated. Ensuring that these materials are sourced from reliable, mite-free suppliers is important.

• Proper Waste Management: Disposing of manure and bedding material properly to reduce breeding grounds for mites. Keeping the surrounding areas clean and free of organic debris helps lower the risk of mite infestations.

• Education and Training: Educating farm workers about the importance of biosecurity and proper procedures is vital. Regular training sessions on the latest biosecurity practices and protocols can ensure everyone on the farm is knowledgeable and vigilant.

• Monitoring and Surveillance: Establishing a monitoring system to regularly check for the presence of mites. Using monitoring appliances like sticky traps and electronic mite counters can help detect early signs of infestation.

• Physical Barriers: Red poultry mites are opportunistic and will feed on any available bird species. Their broad host range increases the complexity of controlling infestations, as wild birds can act as carriers, introducing mites to domestic poultry environments. Effective management strategies must therefore consider not only the poultry but also the surrounding wildlife and environmental conditions to mitigate the risk of mite infestations. Installing physical barriers, such as mesh screens and sealed doors, to prevent wild birds and rodents, which can carry mites, from entering poultry houses.

• Regular Inspections: Conducting regular inspections of the poultry house structure to identify and repair any cracks or crevices where mites could hide and breed.

• Maintaining Records: Keeping detailed records of biosecurity measures, monitoring results, and any mite infestations can help in tracking and improving the effectiveness of the biosecurity program.

By adhering to these comprehensive biosecurity measures, poultry farms can significantly reduce the risk of red mite infestations and maintain healthier, more productive flocks.

5. Use of Natural Products: Incorporating natural products like essential oils into regular management practices can provide ongoing control without the risks associated with chemical treatments. These products can be part of an integrated pest management program, combining their use with other control methods.

Red Mite Control: An Ongoing Battle

The battle against red mites in poultry farming is ongoing, but recent research provides hope for more effective and sustainable control methods. By understanding the lifecycle and behaviour of red mites, EU poultry farmers can implement integrated pest management strategies that combine chemical, biological, and physical controls. With a focus on regular monitoring, improved housing design, and the use of natural products, farmers can protect their flocks from the detrimental effects of red mites, ensuring healthier birds and more productive farms.

Embracing these strategies not only aligns with EU regulations and animal welfare standards but also promotes a more sustainable and profitable poultry industry. As research continues to uncover new insights, staying informed and adaptable will be key to successfully managing red mite infestations in the future. By leveraging the latest findings and integrating them into daily practices, poultry farmers can create a more resilient and healthy farming environment.