Clover Mite
Scientific Name: Bryobia praetiosa
Order & Family: Order: Trombidiformes; Family: Tetranychidae
Size: Very small, approximately 0.75 mm to 0.85 mm in length (smaller than a pinhead).
Natural Habitat
Often found on concrete, stone walls, windowsills, and sidings, especially on the sunny side of buildings. They thrive in well-fertilized lawns and clover patches.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous mites that feed on plant juices from clover, grasses, lawns, and ornamental plants.
Behavior Patterns
They are most active in spring and fall. They often congregate in large numbers on sun-warmed surfaces and may accidentally invade homes through small cracks around windows and doors.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans and pets (they do not bite or transmit disease). However, they are considered a nuisance pest because if crushed, they leave a distinct, reddish-brown stain on fabrics, walls, and paperwork.
Identified on: 3/7/2026