15 Common Types of Mites and How to Identify Them

Mites are tiny arachnids that are related to spiders and ticks There are thousands of different mite species, many of which are microscopic in size. While some mites are harmless or even beneficial, others can bite, cause allergies, and spread diseases

In this article, we will explore 15 of the most common types of mites, how to identify them, and how to prevent or get rid of them.

1. Clover Mites

Clover mites are tiny red-brown mites that get their name because they feed on clover plants. They are very common in lawns and gardens and sometimes invade homes by the thousands.

You can identify clover mites by their elongated front legs and reddish color. Though they don’t bite or transmit diseases clover mites can stain surfaces red when crushed. To control them, trim vegetation near foundations vacuum thoroughly, and seal cracks where they enter.

2. Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on plants and spin fine webs on leaves They cause damage by sucking sap You’ll notice tiny dots on leaves and fine webs if you have spider mites,

To control spider mites, prune and destroy seriously infested leaves. Use high-pressure water sprays to knock them off plants. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.

3. Demodex Mites

Demodex are microscopic mites that live in hair follicles and pores. They are present on most people’s faces. Usually they cause no issues, but in large numbers, they can cause itchy rashes and skin irritation.

See your doctor if you think demodex mites are causing irritation. Treatments include medicated creams, gentle skin cleansers, and medications that kill mites.

4. Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed on dead skin cells in dust. They are present in all homes and can trigger allergic reactions.

To reduce dust mites, use dust-proof mattress and pillow covers, wash bedding weekly in hot water, reduce indoor humidity, and vacuum with a HEPA filter. Removing carpets also helps.

5. Chiggers

Chiggers are tiny red mites that are nearly invisible. The larvae bite humans around the ankles, wrists, and waist. Their bites cause intensely itchy red welts.

To prevent chigger bites, wear insect repellent and avoid sitting on low vegetation. Take a hot shower after potential exposure to dislodge chiggers. Calamine lotion and antihistamines relieve itching.

6. Scabies Mites

Scabies mites burrow into the top layer of human skin and cause an extremely itchy rash. Close skin-to-skin contact spreads scabies.

See a doctor for diagnosis and prescription treatment creams that kill scabies mites. All close contacts should also be treated to prevent reinfestation.

7. Rodent Mites

Rodent mites live on mice and rats but will bite humans if their rodent hosts die. They do not reproduce or live for long without rodents to feed on.

Getting rid of all rodents in the home through traps, poison, or extermination will eliminate rodent mites. Vacuuming thoroughly also helps.

8. Bird Mites

Bird mites normally live on the feathers and bodies of birds but migrate to humans if their bird hosts die or nests are disturbed. They will bite exposed skin but do not reproduce on humans.

Removing bird nests near the home and sealing cracks prevents entry. Vacuuming dead mites and discarding dead birds also reduces bird mites in the home.

9. Ear Mites

Ear mites are microscopic parasites that live in the ear canals of cats and dogs. They cause irritation, head shaking, and crusty ears.

Veterinarians diagnose ear mites by looking at ear discharge under a microscope. Treatment involves thorough ear cleaning and medication to kill the mites.

10. Oak Mites

Oak mites are tiny red mites that live on oak trees. In autumn, thousands may fall from trees and bite humans. Their bites cause intensely itchy, red welts.

Avoid sitting under oak trees in fall. Apply insect repellent containing DEET. Take antihistamines to reduce itching from bites.

11. Flour Mites

Flour mites contaminate stored grains and flours. They are tiny white or tan mites that leave a powdery residue. Throw away any infested flour identified by clumping, musty odors, or visible mites.

Storing flour in airtight containers prevents reinfestation. Disinfect shelves and containers in the pantry to eliminate flour mites.

12. Varroa Mites

Varroa mites are parasites that feed on honey bees. They weaken and can destroy colonies. Beekeepers use screened bottom boards and chemical treatments to control varroa mites in hives.

13. Nasal Mites

Nasal mites infest dogs’ nasal passages and sinuses. They cause nose pain, sneezing, and nasal discharge. Vets diagnose nasal mites from swabs. Treatment requires antiparasitic medications.

14. Mold Mites

Mold mites feed on mold and thrive in damp areas of homes. Eliminating excess moisture prevents mold and mold mites. If you see mold mites, get rid of mold with fungicides and by fixing leaks.

15. Mange Mites

Mange mites burrow into animals’ skin and cause severe itching, hair loss, and skin infections. Vets diagnose mange by skin scrapings. Animals require antiparasitic dips, sprays, or injections to kill mange mites.

How to Prevent and Control Mites

• Use dust-proof covers on mattresses and pillows
• Wash bedding and clothing in hot water frequently
• Vacuum carpets and upholstery regularly
• Seal cracks and crevices in the home
• Clear vegetation and leaf litter near the foundation
• Apply insect repellent when outdoors
• Inspect pets and livestock for parasites
• See a doctor for unexplained rashes or itching
• Discard infested flour, grains, etc.
• Fix moisture issues to prevent mold
• Follow vets’ advice for treating animal mites

While mites can sometimes invade homes and cause nuisance bites, proper identification and targeted control measures can get rid of them or prevent problems. Seek medical advice if bites or rashes persist. With vigilance, the most troublesome mites can be avoided or eliminated from a home.