mites

Question
I have a cockatiel that scratches a lot. Can people catch mites from birds? What can we do about it?

Answer
Hello Diana and thank you for posting.
If you suspect that your bird has mites, then please get him/her in to see a Certified Avian or Exotic Animal Vet to be tested.  The test is simple and painless for the bird, and it is inexpensive.
To answer your question, yes, people can catch mites from a bird.  Mites are generally not fussy what kind if skin that they imbed in.
If it is determined by your vet that your bird hs mites, your vet will give you a treatment for the mites that is safe to use on birds.
In the mean time, try giving your bird a light misting of water every day and see if that helps him/her.  (S)he might just have dry skin that itches.

Good luck and God Bless.
Dianna