Bites cause itching and light dermatitis. These mites enter a house after death of the host bird or departure from the nest. They can live for a month or more without a blood meal. This mite will feed on humans even when rats are present, causing painful bites, intense itching and dermatitis. Barely visible, they are bright red to black with white markings and are usually noticed on walls in basements, kitchens, bathrooms and where rats are found.
Mites drop from their host after each blood meal and can survive several days without feeding.
This mite is found on mice and can bite humans. It will wander away from mice onto walls. These microscopic mites live in the hair follicles or sebaceous glands of most humans. Very few persons are allergic to them. Those who are may lose their eyelashes or develop acne.