An Edinburgh man is battling a severe bird mite infestation that has invaded his home and body.
Jonathan Landau-Litewski, 37, says the mites are coming from a bird’s nest outside his council flat window on Royston Mains Road. The parasites have overrun his bed, forcing him to “boil” his sheets. After seeing a doctor, Jonathan learned the mites had also infested his skin.
He described his symptoms to Edinburgh Live: “My arms started to get really sore. I got a huge rash. The mites have burrowed into my skin and laid eggs. I’m using a cream called permethrin, which is for scabies and lice. It’s disgusting.”
Jonathan shared photos showing a rash and said the mites caused discomfort and sleepless nights.
Experts say bird mites seek new hosts when they cannot feed on birds, often entering homes. The British Pest Control Association warns these mites can multiply rapidly, causing itching, biting, and a crawling sensation. The infestation can also lead to sleep loss and mental health problems.
Jonathan is self-isolating to avoid infecting his flatmate. He said, “I can’t socialise. I have to stay in my house for three weeks while using the cream because the mites are contagious. I can’t believe I’m being attacked by these vile little things in my own bed.”
He reported the problem to Edinburgh Council, demanding his windows be replaced. He claims the old windows allowed the mites to enter his flat. The council’s housing team acknowledged the issue and advised him to contact Pest Control to resolve it.
Related Topics:
