Clover Mite

Scientific Name: Bryobia praetiosa

Order & Family: Order: Trombidiformes; Family: Tetranychidae

Size: Very small; typically smaller than a pinhead (approx. 0.75 mm long).

Clover Mite

Natural Habitat

Often found on lawns, clover, grasses, and weeds. They frequently invade homes in spring and fall seeking warmth, typically congregating near windowsills on the sunny side of buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they feed on plant juices from clover, grasses, and lawn plants.

Behavior Patterns

They are active primarily in cooler weather (spring and fall). When crushed, they leave a characteristic red stain (which is their body pigment, not blood). They do not bite or sting.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are a nuisance pest indoors and can stain fabrics, curtains, or walls red if crushed. Benefits: Generally harmless to humans and pets; they play a minor role in the ecosystem as prey for other small predators.

Identified on: 2/21/2026