What are Chiggers?

Chiggers are small, red mites that are found in grassy and wooded areas, especially during warmer months. They can also be found in sandy or dry, bare ground. Chiggers are a form of arachnid, the same family as spiders, ticks, and scorpions. Chiggers are about the size of a small period when seen with the naked eye.

The Lifecycle Of Chiggers

Chiggers go through four stages in their lifecycle: egg, larvae, nymph and adult. Females lay eggs in the soil during warmer months and these eggs typically hatch in a couple of weeks. The larvae are the stage most commonly found on humans. In the larval stage, the chigger is a tiny, mobile creature looking for a source of food and liquid. They will feed on insects, such as ants and spiders, as well as humans. The larvae will burrow into the skin, looking for food. The larvae then become nymphs and feed until they reach adulthood. Adults are much larger and can be up to 3 millimeters in size. They live in burrows in the ground or in cracks and crevices.

How Do Chiggers Affect Humans?

The larvae of chiggers often attach to human skin. Once the larva has attached, it will feed on human skin for up to three days. Chiggers do not actually “bite,” but instead, they inject saliva that contains digestive enzymes into the skin. This enzyme causes an itching or burning sensation, which can last from a few hours to a few days. In severe cases, chiggers can cause severe skin irritation and pain.

Chiggers are a nuisance but are generally considered harmless. In rare cases, chiggers can cause more severe reactions known as trombiculiasis, which can lead to skin rashes, fever, and fatigue. The best way to avoid getting bitten by chiggers is to avoid areas where they are likely to be found and to wear long clothing and bug spray that contains DEET when outdoors.