As a snake owner, it can be very frustrating to deal with snake mites. These tiny parasites attach to your pet and make it very uncomfortable by biting and feeding on its blood all the time. They quickly reproduce and take over your snake’s whole habitat, making it seem impossible to get rid of them for good. Adding pest mites, on the other hand, might be all it takes to get rid of the problem.
What Are Pest Mites?
Some types of mites, like snake mites, are pests. These types are also called beneficial mites or predator mites. Microscopic pest mites belong to many genera, such as Phytoseiulus, Amblyseius, Hypoaspis, and Neoseiulus. These mites hunt, kill, and eat snake mites, which changes the way they reproduce. They are a natural and chemical-free way to get rid of snake mite infestations because they are biological controls.
How Do Pest Mites Work?
Ticks and other pests need warmer temperatures (above 80%RH) and higher humidity levels (above 60%RH) to thrive. When introduced into a snake habitat where mites are common, they start eating all stages of the snake mite life cycle. The predatory mites attack by puncturing the snake mites’ shells and injecting poison into them while sucking out their fluids.
A small group of pest mites can wipe out snake mite populations in just a few days by eating up to 20 of them every day. Also, they reproduce quickly, which lets their numbers quickly reach the thousands and keep up with the snake mites. Snake mites that are still alive are eaten by pest mites until the infestation is completely under control.
Optimal Species for Snake Mite Control
One of the most popular varieties for managing snake mites is Hypoaspis miles. These tiny tan mites measure just 0.4 mm but pack a powerful predatory punch. They thrive in the warmer, humid conditions required by pet snakes.
Other excellent choices include Amblyseius cucumeris Amblyseius californicus Amblyseius swirskii, and Phytoseiulus persimilis. These mites all possess a remarkable ability to seek out snake mites and wipe out populations. Strains ideal for the environment in your snake’s enclosure are available.
Acquiring and Releasing Pest Mites
Pest mites are available from a number of commercial insectaries that supply beneficial insects and mites, They are typically sold in bottles containing thousands of mites along with a carrier substance like bran or vermiculite Expect to pay $25-$30 for a shipment
Once received, sprinkling the mites throughout the snake’s enclosure is as simple as shaking the container. Focus on areas the snake frequents and where mites accumulate like substrates and hides. The mites will disperse and get right to preying on snake mites. After a few weeks, the pest mite population will die off once snake mites are under control.
Maximizing Effectiveness
Getting the most out of pest mites requires creating an ideal environment and providing adequate food supply. Maintain temperatures around 75°F and humidity above 60%. Use substrates like cypress mulch that hold moisture well. Eliminate other insecticides which could harm the beneficial mites.
Introduce enough pest mites to match the level of infestation, using ratios provided by suppliers as a guide. Rotate substrates frequently to prevent mites from hiding. Monitor progress and release more mites if needed until snake mites are eradicated. Patience is key as it takes time for pest mite populations to establish and overcome the snake mites.
Advantages of Pest Mites
Utilizing predatory pest mites offers a safe, non-toxic solution to snake mite problems. The mites pose no harm to humans or pets, avoiding the hazards of chemical pesticides. Pest mites are inexpensive, simple to use, and provide thorough control when properly implemented. The mites often eliminate mites in places sprays can’t reach. Their effects are also longer-lasting as the mites persist until prey is scarce.
For a natural approach to serious snake mite issues, deploying an army of benevolent pest mites leads to success without risks. Allow their remarkable hunting abilities to destroy every last snake mite and finally gain the upper hand against this frustrating foe!
Chemical treatments may not be safe for reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates
Common chemical snake mite treatments such as neonicotinoids and pyrethroids can be toxic for reptiles and other animals. Garter snakes and hognose snakes are particularly susceptible; as are hatchling snakes of all species. They are of course, especially hazardous for lizards, amphibians and invertebrates.
Chemical treatments can be a big problem with large collections
Using chemicals to get rid of mites can be dangerous if you also have any of the animals above that are easily harmed. We also know that these chemicals leave a residue inside the treated vivarium for up to 6 weeks, which can be disastrous if animals are moved to new enclosures that have previously been treated.
SNAKE MITES? – REMOVE THEM, FOREVER!
FAQ
What are the predator mites for snake mites?
Taurrus predators are the natural predator of many different species of mite, including Ophionyssus natricis – the snake mite. It works by killing and consuming both the mites and also their eggs.
What is the best treatment for snake mites?
We recommend Reptile Relief by Natural Chemistry (to treat the animal) and Provent-A-Mite by Pro Products (to treat the enclosure).
What insects eat snake mites?
Cheyletus Eruditus : This mite species is a newer biological approach to snake mites, which thrives at higher temperatures and humidity levels that are more in line with captive snakes. These mites also eat all life stages of snake mite and have been found to help control snake mite infestations.
How do you get rid of snake dust mites?
Your vet will also advise whether they want you to spray down your snake’s enclosure with an insecticide. If you’d rather use less dangerous snake mite treatments, try: Betadine baths (povidone-iodine solution): Soaking your snake in a Betadine bath is a tried-and-true way to get rid of snake mites.