Concrete Mite / Red Velvet Mite
Scientific Name: Balaustium sp. (typically Balaustium murorum)
Order & Family: Order: Trombidiformes; Family: Erythraeidae
Size: Very small, approximately 1 mm to 2 mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Often found on sun-exposed surfaces like concrete sidewalks, patios, stone walls, and tree bark. They thrive in warm, dry weather.
Diet & Feeding
Prey on other small invertebrates (like smaller mites and insect eggs) and feed on pollen. Unlike many mites, they are predatory and also supplement with pollen.
Behavior Patterns
They are extremely active and fast-moving, often seen scrambling rapidly over hot concrete in the spring and early summer. They are solitary hunters rather than social insects.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans and pets (they do not bite people or suck blood like chiggers, though they are often confused with them). They are beneficial as they eat pest insect eggs and pollen.
Identified on: 3/1/2026