Chigger Control
Chiggers are pests in the mite family which are prevalent throughout the southern part of the United States. They are red, tiny like a spider or clover mite, and smear red when crushed. Chiggers are different from both spider and clover mites in that they like to feed on flesh. They will readily bite dogs, cats, livestock, birds, people or just about any animal they can find. Chiggers live on the ground, around shrubs and plants, or anywhere vegetation is able to protect them. They prefer shade and moist areas, but will forage for food great distances if needed. Unlike most small mites, chiggers are able to move quickly. They are able to sense movement and detect any food source from a great distance. Pets will get chiggers simply walking throughout the yard; people can get them playing golf, working in the garden or during a picnic.
Chiggers spend the winter lodged in the soil a few inches deep. When spring arrives, adults emerge to lay eggs in the same areas they hibernated. Eggs will hatch in a short while to release the larval stage. This is the stage which feeds on mammals. It requires flesh and will feed on just about any mammal available. Once a target is found, the young chigger will attack. First, it will crawl over shoes, socks and pants attempting to find meat. Chiggers are small enough to fit through the mesh of many fabrics. This enables them to penetrate socks or pants quickly. Once on the skin, they will try to locate a place where they feel secure. This is usually under socks, around the waist band of underwear or anywhere clothing is tight. At this point, they will either puncture the skin or use hair follicles to get food. Chiggers have a special fluid which liquifies flesh enabling the chigger to "suck" it's meal. During this time, you would expect to feel an itch where they are feeding. Their digestive fluids usually irritate our skin and creates a red blotch.
If you have a chigger infestation, we suggest you read our complete chigger control article which covers in great detail all you need to know and do to treat this pest.
