What is this a spider or a mite
December 21, 2009
Dear Sir … for the last compile of days we have been finding these running all over our skin. What are they, and are they harmful, and where do they come from?
The are smaller than a pin head, and move very quickly so taking good photos was a challenge. I hope you can help.
Thank you
Bernard
South Africa
Dear Bernard,
We can confirm that this is a Mite, but we are unable to provide any additional information. Many Mites are found in the home. Mites might infest pests and food products depending upon the species, and that identification would take a degree of expertise that we do not possess. Perhaps an acarologist will be able to provide us with information if one happens to read this posting.
That is an avian mite. Most likely O. Bursa, but could be D. Gallinae.