Warm weather tends to bring the bugs out of hiding, and one you may start seeing all over your patio, driveway, and rock walls is the red velvet mite. These itty-bitty insects aren't spiders, ants, or beetles, and despite their neon-red hue (and the sheer number of them that can appear at once), there's no need to be alarmed when you see them. In fact, red velvet mites can be beneficial to gardeners.
However, if you're seeing red velvet mites indoors or in places that you'd like to keep bug-free, there are some preventative measures you can take to manage their presence. We talked to an expert about everything you need to know about red velvet mites, including where you can find them, what their benefits are, and how to prevent them from getting all over your picnic blankets.
What Are Red Velvet Mites?
According to the Missouri Department of Conservation (DoC), true red velvet mites are small, bright red insects often seen on rocks, planters, and tree trunks, especially after a rainstorm. They are named for their velvety-looking texture. Adult red velvet mites are technically arachnids because they have eight legs, but they're not spiders—they're mites. Missouri's DoC states that eastern states most commonly see the smaller species of red velvet mites (no larger than 1/8 of an inch), whereas the southwest will see slightly larger mites, averaging 1/2 of an inch in size.
Many people confuse red velvet mites with the much smaller and more harmful red spider mites. An easy way to tell which one you have is to take a photo.
“Spider mites are so small, they'll appear as a spec of red dust on camera,” says Becca Tellar, Head of Customer Experience at Pestie, an at-home pest control spray. “True red velvet mites, you'll be able to see."
What Do Red Velvet Mites Eat?
Red velvet mites most commonly eat termites—great news for homeowners everywhere—and will not prey on pollinators or larger animals. When termites are not available, adult mites will eat other insects' eggs and larvae.
Where Do Red Velvet Mites Live?
In the summer, you'll likely see red velvet mites all over your garden, front walkway, or anywhere with a lot of moisture.
“Piles of leaves, trees, the underside of decking, and below rocks are common hot spots for these mites.” Tellar says. Warm weather also means more food for red velvet mites—many insects lay eggs in the spring and summer, so the mites are out feeding more often.
Although it's rare, red velvet mites can also be found inside the home, most likely in the bathroom because of the moist, humid environment.
Are Red Velvet Mites Harmful?
Thankfully, red velvet mites are not harmful to humans or animals. These insects typically mind their own business and do not bite or sting. As a bonus, they feed on the eggs of common garden pests like aphids while leaving the greens alone, which makes them a welcome sight for gardeners.
How Can I Prevent Getting Red Velvet Mites?
Because red velvet mites are benign insects that mainly stay outside, you don't need to worry about getting rid of them. However, if you're trying to deter them from a particular outdoor area, Tellar recommends limiting moisture and eliminating the mites' primary food source: other insects.
“I would use a standard pesticide or insecticide, like the Pestie spray, to get rid of what the red velvet mites want to eat the most,” she says. “Once the food source is gone, they'll move on fairly quickly.”
Additionally, if you want a quick and chemical-free way to get rid of red velvet mites, NC State Extension recommends “using a garden hose to wash the mites away.” You can also use soapy water to wipe up any mites you see indoors.
Red Velvet Mite FAQs
Do Red Velvet Mites Bite?
No, red velvet mites do not bite humans or animals. While they are predators, they target insects and larvae rather than mammals.
Are Red Velvet Mites Beneficial?
They can be! Because they feed on termites, red velvet mites can potentially prevent long-term damage caused by those wood-eating critters. Red velvet mites also eat insect eggs, particularly those of common garden pests. “They're a great garden bug,” says Tellar. “They'll feed on the aphids that are eating your greenery.”
