Fig. 72 An itch mite seen from the side, from above and from below (Mellanby)

The adult female itch mite is only 1/3 mm long. The other stages, which are most numerous, are smaller. The color is brown and white.

The body is round and the rear legs are relatively long. When the mites dig, it extends the hind legs in order to get mouthparts at an appropriate angle when biting. The mite’s body is grooved and covered with small spines, which possibly help it dig.