Chigger facts for kids

A chigger is a tiny, almost invisible creature that lives in grassy areas and woods. It's actually a type of mite, not an insect, and it's related to spiders and ticks! Chiggers are also known as "harvest mites" or "red bugs." They are very small, usually less than 1 millimeter long, and can be bright red, orange, or brownish. Because they are so tiny, it's almost impossible to see them with your eyes alone.

Chiggers are known for their itchy bites. Only the larval (baby) chiggers bite humans and animals. They don't burrow into your skin or stay attached like ticks. Instead, they inject a special fluid that breaks down skin cells, and then they feed on these broken-down cells. The itchy bumps you get are your body's reaction to this fluid.

What are Chiggers?

Chiggers are part of the Trombiculidae family. They are arachnids, which means they are in the same group as spiders and scorpions. Unlike adult chiggers, which eat small insects and insect eggs, the baby chiggers (larvae) need to feed on skin cells from animals or humans to grow.

Where Do Chiggers Live?

Chiggers love warm, moist places. You can often find them in:

• Tall grass
• Weedy fields
• Forests
• Near lakes or rivers
• Berry patches
• Gardens

They are most active when the weather is warm, usually from spring through fall.

Chigger Bites: What Happens?

When a chigger larva finds a host (like you!), it looks for a place to attach. They prefer areas where clothing is tight or skin is thin, such as:

• Around ankles
• Behind knees
• In the groin area
• Under armpits
• Around the waistline

The chigger doesn't actually "bite" in the way a mosquito does. Instead, it attaches to a hair follicle or pore and injects a digestive fluid. This fluid creates a tiny, tube-like structure in your skin called a "stylostome." The chigger then feeds on the liquefied skin cells through this tube.

How Long Do Bites Last?

You usually won't feel a chigger bite right away. The itching often starts several hours after the chigger has attached, or even a day or two later. The chigger usually stays attached for a few hours to a few days, then drops off once it's full. The itchy red bumps can last for one to two weeks, or sometimes even longer. It's important not to scratch them too much, as this can lead to skin infections.

How to Prevent Chigger Bites

The best way to deal with chiggers is to avoid getting bitten in the first place! Here are some tips:

• Wear protective clothing: When you're in grassy or wooded areas, wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks. Tuck your pants into your socks or boots to create a barrier.
• Use insect repellent: Apply insect repellents that contain DEET or picaridin to your skin and clothing. Always follow the directions on the label.
• Stay on trails: Try to avoid walking through tall grass or dense brush where chiggers are common.
• Shower after outdoor activities: Take a warm, soapy shower as soon as possible after being outdoors. This can help wash off any chiggers that haven't attached yet.
• Wash clothes: Wash your clothes in hot water after being in chigger-prone areas.

Treating Chigger Bites

If you do get chigger bites, here's what you can do to relieve the itching:

• Don't scratch: It's hard, but try not to scratch the bites. Scratching can break the skin and lead to infections.
• Apply anti-itch creams: Over-the-counter creams like hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion can help reduce itching and swelling.
• Take antihistamines: Oral antihistamines (like diphenhydramine) can also help relieve itching.
• Cool compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the itchy areas can provide some relief.

If the bites become very swollen, painful, or show signs of infection (like pus or spreading redness), it's a good idea to have an adult check them or see a doctor.