Finding a vaccine for red mite

Red mite is a pervasive pest in both the laying hen and broiler breeder sectors. It can cause significant production problems, act as a vector for disease and even increase mortality. Jake Davies reports from Scotland where research is underway to develop a vaccine. The poultry red mite constitutes a substantial cost to laying hen production and there are few ways to control it. The pest can feed on up to 5% of a bird’s blood overnight, causing stress and anaemia, as well as lowering immunity