Clover mites are tiny arachnids related to spiders and ticks, often mistakenly identified as insects. These pests are primarily a nuisance because they can invade structures in large numbers, particularly during certain seasons. Clover mites cannot fly because they do not possess wings; their movement into and around homes is accomplished solely by crawling.
Physical Characteristics and Movement
Clover mites are minuscule, typically measuring less than 1/30th of an inch, about the size of a pinhead. Their bodies are oval-shaped and range in color from reddish-brown to dark green or olive. Like other arachnids, they have eight legs, but their front pair is notably elongated and often held forward like antennae.
These mites travel by rapidly crawling across surfaces, a movement sometimes mistaken for flight or being carried by air currents. When they appear as moving dark specks, they are often seen congregating on window sills or walls. A common issue arises when these mites are crushed, leaving behind a distinctive rusty-red stain on light-colored surfaces like fabrics or paint. This stain is due to the mite’s body pigments, not blood.
Triggers for Indoor Invasion
Clover mites are outdoor plant feeders that thrive in lush, well-fertilized lawns and turfgrass. Their migration indoors is typically a response to changing environmental conditions, as they seek shelter from temperature extremes. In early spring and late fall, populations surge and may seek refuge from excessive heat or cold.
They are particularly attracted to sun-exposed areas like south and west-facing walls, where heat creates an ideal microclimate. These mites gain entry through incredibly small openings, such as minute cracks in the foundation, gaps around window and door frames, and utility penetrations. Heavy growth of grass or dense vegetation directly against the structure provides a direct bridge for them to climb and enter.
Simple Control and Prevention
The most effective method for removing clover mites found indoors is using a vacuum cleaner with a crevice attachment. This technique is recommended because it prevents crushing the mites and avoids subsequent red staining on carpets and walls. To ensure the mites do not escape back into the home, dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately after use.
Prevention focuses on eliminating access points and reducing outdoor habitats near the structure. Sealing exterior cracks and gaps around windows and doors with caulk blocks their tiny entry routes. Creating a vegetation-free barrier, approximately 18 to 24 inches wide around the foundation, is also highly effective. This barrier can be made of loose materials like pea gravel, crushed rock, or bare soil, which are difficult for the mites to cross.