Velvet Mite - Eutrombidium rostratus

A strikingly red coloured mite. Mites are arachnids, like spiders, and therefore have 8 legs. Velvet mites are voracious predators that often tackle prey many times their own size. They are quite large mites, but are still only about 2 or 3 mm in length.

In loose soil, on stones, garden paths etc.

Often seen in spring when they emerge from hibernation.

Carnivorous, but a harmless species, feeding on small invertebrates and their eggs. They hibernate through the winter.

Common throughout Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.