Insecticide For Chiggers

Chiggers are tiny red and brown mites that live on the grass and plants. Chigger bites come in groups of two or three with each bite containing an itchy liquid that can develop into a tough and irritating red bump on the skin. Chiggers get onto the skin at night through shoes, socks and clothing so it is important to take precautionary steps indoors as well.

Insecticide For Chiggers

Chiggers, the immature stage of certain mite species, most frequently occur in overgrown brushy or grassy areas, especially where small rodents are abundant. Also, they may be congregated in shady, humid areas near stream banks, under or around trees, or in berry thickets.

The body’s reaction to digestive enzymes that chiggers use to liquefy skin cells causes the rash, intense itching, and misery that begins a few hours after they have fed. Chiggers tend to attach where the skin is thin, tender, or wrinkled, or where clothing is tight. They do not burrow into the skin, do not feed on blood, and do not carry diseases. If undisturbed, these mites may stay attached and feed for three or four days.

Personal Protection

Reducing Discomfort from Bites

Controlling Chiggers Outdoors

While most common in wild overgrowth, chiggers may become established in yards, parks, camps, picnic sites, and recreation areas. Effective vegetation management can make these locations less suitable for chiggers and may greatly reduce infestations. Pruning of trees and bushes and closer mowing allows more sunlight into an area and lowers humidity. Removal of scrub brush piles and accumulated debris reduces protection for small mammals and other animals that are important hosts for chiggers. These environmental modifications produce conditions that are less suitable for chiggers and can provide a more long term solution.

Insecticide sprays may temporarily reduce chiggers but, used alone, are not a long term solution. They are most effective when directed into “hot spots” where chiggers and their animal hosts are known to be abundant. Pay particular attention to borders and fences between wooded or brush areas and the lawn, around ornamental plantings, beside foot paths, and the dog house. Products containing bifenthrin (Ortho Home Defense MAX), carbaryl (Sevin), cyhalothrin (Spectracide Bug Stop Indoor + Outdoor Insecticide), and permethrin (various brands) can be effective. A single application during late-April or May is often all that is required, although in severe infestations, treatment may need to be repeated in June. The ground and vegetation up to a height of about three feet should be thoroughly wetted with the insecticide and applied according to label instructions. Children and pets should be kept off treated areas until the vegetation is completely dry.

Insecticide For Chiggers

Chiggers are tiny mites that feed on humans and animals. They cause intense itching, especially around the ankles and wrists, and can also cause a rash.

The best way to prevent chigger bites is to wear long pants and long sleeves when you’re outside during the day. If you do get bitten by chiggers, there are several insecticides available at your local hardware store that can help relieve your symptoms. These insecticides work by killing or repelling chiggers, so you don’t want to use them if you’re not sure whether or not you have chiggers in your area.

If you do know that chiggers are present in your area, there are several types of insecticides available: sprays and powders that kill adult chiggers; sprays and powders that kill nymphs (before they develop into adults); sprays that kill eggs; sprays that repel adult chiggers; and insecticide-treated clothing.

List Of Insecticide For Chiggers