Clover Mite

Scientific Name: Bryobia praetiosa

Order & Family: Trombidiformes, Tetranychidae

Size: 0.75 mm to 0.85 mm (smaller than a pinhead)

Clover Mite

Natural Habitat

Grassy lawns, gardens, and building exteriors, often entering homes through window sills in early spring or fall.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they feed on the sap of over 200 different plant species, including grass, clover, and ornamental flowers.

Behavior Patterns

Active during cooler months (spring and autumn). They are known for leaving a bright red, blood-like stain when crushed, which is actually pigment, not blood. They reproduce parthenogenetically (without males).

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or pets and do not cause structural damage. Their main risk is being a nuisance pest due to their large numbers and the potential to stain fabrics and wallpapers when crushed.

Identified on: 1/12/2026