Where Do Chiggers Live? Understanding Their Habitat and How to Avoid Them

The answer to this question comes from the British name for these bugs: harvest mites. The insects, also called red bugs and trombiculid mites, live in rural and forested areas. Take a closer look into the habitat and behavior of chiggers. By understanding these aspects, you can better protect yourself and limit your exposure to these pests.

What Are Chiggers?

Chiggers are tiny mites belonging to the Trombiculidae family. They’re also commonly known as berry bugs and bush mites. Knowing where chiggers are found can help you avoid young larvae, which is the only stage at which these pests bite.

Following the larval stage, chiggers go through nymph and adult stages before they die. The life cycle for most chiggers is about two months. However, chiggers do not actually "gorge themselves on human skin." Instead, they inject enzymes into the skin that break down skin cells, which they then consume. After biting a person, a chigger will die within two days.

Habitat and Distribution

Where do you find chiggers? Chiggers thrive in specific environments. Chiggers are usually found in warm regions like the American Southeast, South, and Midwest, and other regions worldwide that meet their environmental needs.

Geographic Distribution

Chiggers can show up almost anywhere except Antarctica. Although they prefer warm temperatures, chiggers can survive anywhere with a temperate climate. They tend to inhabit areas with an average temperature range of 77–86℉ (25–30℃).

Preferred Habitats

Chiggers look for habitats that offer heat and humidity. Since these environmental conditions are more common in humid places with streams and rivers, you’ll typically find these insects near natural bodies of water.

This type of mite can also thrive in tall grass or overgrown foliage. Large weeds and plants trap moisture, resulting in higher humidity levels closer to the soil. Chiggers can nest in any lush areas, including golf courses and gardens. They’re also common in forests and other natural, shaded areas.

Seasonal Activity

Finding out where chiggers live can depend on the season as much as the geographical location. In tropical regions, chigger activity typically begins in early spring, but this can vary based on local climate patterns. In more temperate climates, activity may start later in the spring and continue until late summer. Chiggers are most active in warm weather, preferring temperatures between 77°F and 86°F. As temperatures drop and the first frost arrives, chigger activity decreases, and they die off when the temperature falls below 42°F.

Why Do Chiggers Bite?

Chigger larvae are aggressive and opportunistic, latching onto the skin of any person or animal that nears them. When chiggers bite, they don’t suck blood like many insects. Instead, they inject enzymes into the skin that break down skin cells for easier digestion. The process starts with tiny claws that penetrate the skin, followed by the secretion of these enzymes. The chigger then consumes the digested skin cells for nourishment.

Symptoms of Chigger Bites

Chigger bites typically look red, resembling pimples or hives. You might see several bites or a cluster of them in one area. Look for clusters in common bite regions, such as around the ankles or on the elbows. Chiggers will attack any area where the skin folds or the joints bend. Bites often occur where clothing is tight, such as at the back of the knees, in the groin area, and around the waist.

Preventing Chigger Bites

Knowing about their habits and avoiding those places is the best way to prevent bites. When you do enter those areas, wear insect-repellent clothing. Long-sleeved shirts, pants with tight cuffs, and tall socks will also help limit your exposure. Tuck your pants into your socks for added protection.

Insect repellents will also help protect you against chigger bites. Consider using permethrin for treating clothing and shoes. This broad-spectrum insecticide repels both larvae and adult insects. Additionally, taking a shower and washing your clothes immediately after being in areas where chiggers are prevalent can help remove any that may be on your skin or clothing, further reducing the risk of bites.

Familiarize Yourself With Chigger Activity to Stay Safe

Now that you know more about chigger location and behavior, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your pets from them. Although chigger bites aren’t dangerous, they can become irritating and lead to rashes, infections, and discomfort. Taking steps to avoid places where chiggers live will go a long way toward preventing exposure and bites.

One effective method for protecting against chiggers and other biting insects is the use of permethrin spray for clothing, shoes, and gear. This allows you to treat your own clothing, providing an extra layer of defense. Additionally, permethrin-treated clothing and gear, which are EPA-registered for protection against chiggers and other pests, offer a convenient and reliable way to minimize the risk of bites. Using these preventive measures can help you stay safe and comfortable in areas where chiggers are present.