Chiggers, also known as red bugs, are tiny mites that can cause skin irritation through their bites. Understanding where chiggers like to live and feed can help you avoid them and prevent getting bitten.
What are chiggers?
Chiggers belong to the Trombiculidae family of mites. The larvae are the ones that bite and feed on humans and animals. They are extremely tiny, measuring only about 1/120 to 1/150 inch (0.2-0.3 mm) in size. They are red to orange in color.
Chiggers do not burrow into or live inside the skin. They insert their feeding structures into the skin and inject enzymes that digest skin cells. This causes the irritation and intense itching associated with chigger bites.
Where do chiggers live?
Chiggers live in areas with tall grasses, bushes, weeds, and overgrown vegetation. They prefer moist, shaded locations. Some common habitats include:
- Woods, forests, and along the edges of wooded areas
- Low vegetation and shrubs
- Bodies of water like lakes, ponds, and streams
- Parks and recreational areas
- Overgrown lawns, gardens, and fields
Chiggers hang out in these places waiting for a host animal or human to brush up against the vegetation. Then they quickly climb on board.
Where on the body do chiggers prefer to bite?
Chiggers often bite areas where clothing fits snugly against the skin or where folds of skin meet. Common bite sites include:
- Ankles
- Waistline
- Groin
- Armpits
- Behind the knees
- Around the elbows
- Under breasts
Areas covered by tight clothing like socks and underwear are also prone to chigger bites. Babies and toddlers may be bitten in the diaper area.
Why do chiggers choose these body locations?
Chiggers prefer protected areas where skin is thin and tender. Some reasons they favor folds and tight spots include:
- Easy access – skin is softened from sweating and rubbing
- Harder to dislodge – clothing helps them stay attached
- Less likely to be scratched – harder for host to reach to scratch
The biting mites can more easily penetrate delicate skin in these locations and feed undisturbed for several days.
Tips to avoid chigger bites
You can take some simple precautions to prevent chigger bites:
- Wear long pants and socks when in grassy, overgrown areas
- Tuck pants into socks or boots to keep chiggers out
- Apply insect repellent containing DEET to clothes and exposed skin
- Take a hot soapy shower soon after coming indoors
- Wash clothes immediately to kill any remaining chiggers
Avoiding chigger habitats like tall grasses and weedy areas can also reduce your risk. Trimming overgrown lawns and clearing brush around the home perimeter helps discourage chiggers.
What to do if bitten
Chigger bites usually don’t appear until hours after exposure, once the mites have detached. Bites look like small, red, swollen welts that intensely itch.
For relief, you can:
- Apply over-the-counter anti-itch creams
- Take an oral antihistamine for the itching
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling
- Avoid scratching to prevent infection
See your doctor if bites become infected or you experience a severe reaction. Symptoms of a secondary infection can include pus, oozing, and expanding redness.
Conclusion
Chiggers inhabit areas with tall weeds and grass. They prefer to bite skin that is thin, soft, and protected, like the ankles, groin, and waistline. Wearing protective clothing and avoiding chigger habitats can help you avoid bites. Check for ticks after being outdoors as they are extremely small. Shower and launder clothing after potential exposure to dislodge any remaining mites.