Clover mites are minuscule, reddish-brown pests often found near homes. Their sudden appearance can cause concern, leading many to wonder if these tiny arachnids are poisonous.
Are Clover Mites Poisonous?
Clover mites are not poisonous to humans or pets. They do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases, making them largely harmless to health. These mites are plant feeders, deriving nutrition by sucking juices from grasses and various plants, not from humans or animals. The common misconception arises when crushed mites leave a reddish stain. This red mark is not blood, but their hemolymph, which is their body fluid, or a natural body pigment. While these stains can be unsightly, they are entirely harmless.
Identifying Clover Mites
Clover mites (Bryobia praetiosa) are small arachnids, smaller than a pinhead, measuring about 0.75 to 0.85 millimeters long. Their oval-shaped bodies range from reddish-brown to dark greenish-brown. A distinguishing feature is their eight legs, with the front pair noticeably longer.
These mites are often seen crawling on sunny building sides, around windows and doors, and on outdoor surfaces. They are most active during cooler seasons like spring and fall, seeking indoor shelter when temperatures are extreme. Clover mites primarily feed on plant sap from clovers, lawn grass, and various trees and shrubs. While their feeding can cause a silvery or bronzed appearance on lawns, they do not typically cause severe plant damage.
Dealing with Clover Mites
Managing clover mite infestations involves prevention and non-toxic removal. A proactive approach includes creating a bare strip around your home’s foundation, about 18-24 inches wide, free of grass and weeds. Filling this strip with pea gravel, mulch, or other non-plant materials can discourage mites from crossing. Sealing cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and the foundation also prevents entry. Proper lawn care, such as avoiding over-fertilization, helps reduce populations, as clover mites thrive in lush lawns.
For indoor management, vacuuming is effective for removing mites without crushing them and causing stains. After vacuuming, dispose of the bag. Wiping them up with a damp cloth or sponge is another gentle option. For larger indoor issues, natural remedies like diatomaceous earth or diluted dish soap spray can be used. While simple, non-chemical methods are often sufficient, professional pest control is an option for severe or persistent infestations.