Don’t Let Chiggers Keep you from Enjoying the Outdoors
Spend time outdoors and you are bound to encounter chiggers. These microscopic creatures can leave tiny bites that would result in a great deal of itching and discomfort. What are they, and what can you do to prevent them? Here is some information you need to know.
What are Chiggars?
Trombiculidae are a type of mite that belongs to the arthropod family. They are actually Trombiculidae larvae. They measure anywhere from 1/20 to 1/150 of an inch, and are nearly invisible to the naked eye.
Most of these parasites are bright red, although orange and yellow ones are also common. Some other names for chiggers include berry bugs, red bugs, itch mites, and duck shooters.
Where are Chiggers Found?
Chiggers prefer areas with lots of lush vegetation such as tall grasses and weeds. You may find them in brush thickets, berry patches, hayfields, and forests. In some instances, they may even get into your backyard. This often happens when you live close to a suitable habitat or have wild animals that frequently venture into your yard.
Problems with Chiggers
Chigger bites are painful and itchy. They can lead to excessive scratching that in some cases might even result in an infection. These insects attack animals and humans alike. If you notice your dog scratching, it very would could be because of chiggers rather than fleas.
Treating Chiggers
The best way to get rid of chiggers is to eliminate their habitat. Do this by:
- Keeping grass trimmed and weeds pulled
- Eliminating brush piles
- Pruning shrubs and bushes
- Putting up a fence to keep wild animals at bay
More serious infestations require professional pest control. Here at Home Run Pest & Termite Control, we want you to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about chigger bites. Please contact us right away if you need help eliminating them.
