Clover mites are tiny arthropods related to spiders and ticks. They neither bite humans nor transmit disease, but become a problem when they enter human structures in large numbers in early spring and late summer. Crushing them risks staining items with the mites’ red pigment. Infestations in homes typically end when mites desiccate or dry out. Outdoors they feed on plant juices from clover, grasses, and herbs.