Are those little red spider mites harmful to humans?

Question

We are on the third floor of an apt. building and these little creatures are (I think) falling from the tree in front of the building onto our deck. Do they bite humans or what is their purpose?

Answer 1

Spider mites and clover mites are not blood feeders and will not harm people or pets, nor will they infest household products.

Mites seen on the outside of buildings can be killed with a direct spray of an insecticidal soap or regular liquid dishwashing soap at the rate of 2 tablespoons per gallon of water. Or just try to ignore them!

The "purpose" of most insects is that they are the food source for larger insects and birds. They're just part of the whole giant food chain!