Chiggers In Texas

Chiggers are tiny pests that can cause a lot of frustration and discomfort in Texas. Many Texans assume they’re dealing with mosquito or flea bites, but they might actually be dealing with pesky chigger bites!

What are Chiggers?

Chiggers are tiny mites that are in the Trombiculidae family. They don’t have wings and are relatively small, usually reaching no larger than 1/150 inch.

What kind of area do Chiggers prefer?

Chiggers prefer grassy, wooded areas since they need sugar-rich soil to feed on. They often live in tall grass or weeds, making it easier for them to find hosts.

What do Chiggers do?

When a chigger finds a suitable host (humans or animals), it will attach to the skin and feed off the blood. The chigger will bite the skin, leaving behind itchy red bumps that can be very uncomfortable.

How to Avoid Chiggers

To avoid chiggers when outdoors, try the following:

- Wear long clothes: Wear long clothes that cover your skin as much as possible. This will help reduce exposure to chiggers.

- Wear insect repellent: Use a good insect repellant with DEET to ward off chiggers.

- Stay away from grassy areas: Chiggers live in grassy or wooded areas so try and avoid them if possible.

- Shower: Showering after being outdoors can help get rid of any chiggers that might be on your body.

Treating Chigger Bites

If you’re unfortunate enough to get bit by chiggers, there are some treatments that can help:

- Wash the area: Wash the area with soap and water to help prevent further irritation.

- Ice the area: Put an icepack on the affected area to help reduce swelling.

- Use anti-itching cream: Apply an anti-itching cream to help relieve the itchiness.

- Take oral antihistamines: Taking oral antihistamines like Zyrtec or Claritin can help reduce itching and discomfort.

In conclusion, chiggers are a type of mite that can be found in Texas. The best way to avoid chiggers is to wear long clothing and use insect repellants. If you do get bit by chiggers, there are treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms.

The state of Texas is home to a variety of arthropods that can cause potential skin irritation and itchiness. One of these arthropods is the chigger, also commonly known as the redbug or harvest mite.

Chiggers are red-orange in color, extremely tiny in size, and have eight legs. They are often found in grassy, wooded areas where rodents and birds are active. The primary threat from chiggers is the red bumps and itching they cause when they attach to human skin and feed.

Chigger bites can range from being relatively mild and non-invasive to be more severe, depending on the individual’s sensitivity. Skin irritation can last for a few days and can become infected if the area is scratched too much. To combat chigger bites, lightly scratching the affected area, taking an oatmeal bath, or applying calamine lotion may provide relief.

The best way to prevent chigger bites is to take simple precautions when outdoors. When visiting wooded or grassy areas, it is best to wear long pants, long-sleeves, socks, and closed-toed shoes. Insect repellents with DEET may also be effective, however, it is important to avoid contact with the eyes, nose, and mouth.

In short, chiggers can pose a potential risk for both humans and animals in the state of Texas. Knowing the symptoms and taking the necessary precautionary measures can reduce the chance of transmission and discomfort.

Chiggers in Texas