Feather mites in cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus Kerr, 1792)

Feather mites are arthropods that infest birds’ feathers and can lead to problems such as behavioural changes, skin lesions and damage to the feathers themselves, among others. However, many researchers describe this parasite-host relationship as beneficial to one or both parties. Studies addressing the identification and ecology of feather mites are scarce, especially when it comes to cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus Kerr, 1792). This book aims to provide important information about the species of feather mites found in cockatiels, as well as to show that depending on the region of the bird’s body, we may have a more abundant presence of a certain species of mite. Scanning electron microscopy images clearly and perfectly illustrate the structures of mites used for species identification. The interspecific relationship between feather mites and cockatiels is addressed and discussed in detail, seeking to understand how beneficial or harmful it can be. This is a work with relevant content for students and professionals in the fields of veterinary medicine and biology and, above all, for lovers of acarology.