Frequently Asked Questions Nongame WildlifeWhat are chiggers?
Chiggers are larval arachnids (family of spiders and mites), not
insects. In their adult form they are called Harvester Mites and
are vegetarian. However, at certain stages in their life cycle
they feed on mammalian lymph fluid. They do this by burrowing
under the skin; however, they quickly get their fill and depart.
They are tiny, and you may not notice them until a day or so
after exposure. That's when you'll notice number of red and
unbelievably itchy bumps. These bumps tend to congregate on your
body at areas of constriction, such as where your socks, belt,
and undergarments were. Chiggers are best treated by applying
topical itch medication like Benadryl lotion, Rhuligel,
Chiggerex, or similar product. Some people find relief by
painting fingernail polish over the bumps. This does not have
the effect of smother, suffocate, or otherwise cajole chiggers
to leave your body, since by the time you feel them they're
already gone, but may help preve