Air Sac Mite

Kytodites nudus is a small cosmopolitan mite occasionally noticed as white spots on the bronchi, lungs, air sacs, and abdominal organs of chickens, turkeys, pheasants, pigeons, and mallards. These mites are readily transmissible between birds, but the method of transfer is unknown. They are rarely found in commercial industries. The life cycle involves a larval and two nymphal stages. Infestation densities vary, and clinical signs range from none to weakness, weight loss, pneumonia, peritonitis, obstruction of respiratory passages, and death. Recommended treatments include ivermectin, a nearby dichlorvos pest strip (placed out of reach of the birds), or a pyrethrin/piperonyl butoxide spray.