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Mites in New Jersey: Clover Mites, Bird Mites & Home Protection

What Are Mites?​

Image by Viktor Forgacs
Vacumming the Mattress

Mites are tiny arthropods belonging to the subclass Acari. Related to ticks and spiders, they are among the most diverse and abundant creatures on Earth. While many species are harmless and live in soil, plants, or as decomposers, some mites are pests that infest homes, feed on humans or pets, or damage crops. Because of their small size (most under 1 mm), infestations can go unnoticed until problems arise.

Are Mites Harmful?​​

  • Bites & Irritation: Certain mites, like bird mites and chigger mites, bite humans and cause itchy welts.

  • Allergens: Dust mites trigger allergies and asthma through their shed skins and droppings.

  • Pet Health: Mange mites infest dogs, cats, and other animals, leading to skin irritation and hair loss.

  • Crop Damage: Spider mites damage plants by sucking sap, leaving yellow speckling on leaves.

  • Nuisance Infestations: Clover mites often invade homes in large numbers, staining surfaces when crushed.

Image by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Mites Control​​

  • Because mites vary by species, proper identification is key.

  • Inspection: Identify type of mite (dust mite, clover mite, bird mite, etc.).

  • Sanitation: Reduce dust buildup, vacuum carpets, and wash bedding frequently.

  • Exclusion: Seal cracks and crevices to prevent mites from entering homes.

  • Humidity Control: Lowering indoor humidity helps reduce dust mite populations.

  • Targeted Treatments: Professional applications of miticides or residual insecticides may be needed for plant and structural infestations.

Types of Mites in NJ​

  • Dust Mites: Microscopic mites found in bedding, upholstery, and carpets.

  • Clover Mites: Tiny red mites that invade homes in large numbers during spring and fall.

  • Bird Mites: Infest homes when birds nest on or near buildings.

  • Spider Mites: Plant pests that damage indoor and outdoor vegetation.

  • Chigger Mites: Outdoor mites that bite humans, causing itchy welts.

Mites Appearance​​

  • Size: Typically less than 1 mm; barely visible without magnification.

  • Color: Varies — white, red, brown, or translucent depending on species.

  • Body: Oval or round with 8 legs (as arachnids).

  • Behavior: Some species crawl visibly on walls and windowsills (e.g., clover mites).

Mites Habitat​

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  • Indoors: Carpets, bedding, furniture, and houseplants.

  • Outdoors: Soil, lawns, leaf litter, and gardens.

  • On Animals: Pets, birds, and wildlife hosts.

  • On Crops: Agricultural plants, ornamentals, and trees.

Mites Diet​

  • Dust Mites: Feed on dead skin flakes and organic debris.

  • Spider Mites: Feed on plant sap.

  • Clover Mites: Feed on grasses, clover, and other vegetation.

  • Bird & Rodent Mites: Feed on blood of animals and sometimes humans.

Mites Life Cycle​​​​

  • Mites undergo incomplete metamorphosis:

  • Eggs: Laid on hosts, plants, or in the environment.

  • Larvae: Hatch with 6 legs, very small.

  • Nymphs: Develop 8 legs and begin resembling adults.

  • Adults: Fully developed, capable of reproducing.

  • Life cycles can be as short as 1–3 weeks, allowing populations to explode quickly under favorable conditions.

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