Are Chiggers a Problem in Virginia?

Chiggers, often mistaken for insects, are actually the larval form of a type of mite. In Virginia, these minuscule pests are a significant concern, particularly during their active months from early spring to early autumn. Understanding what chiggers are, recognizing the signs of their bites, and knowing why professional chigger control is crucial can help you enjoy your outdoor spaces without discomfort or disruption.

What Do Chiggers Look Like and Why Is Chigger Control Important?

Chiggers are almost microscopic, red mites that are best seen with a magnifying glass. These larvae are so tiny that they can seem like dots to the naked eye, making them extremely difficult to spot on skin or clothing. They thrive in moist, grassy areas like forests, fields, and gardens—common settings in Virginia's residential landscapes.

Professional chigger control is essential due to the discomfort posed by chigger bites. Without effective management, chigger populations can thrive and cause significant problems for anyone trying to enjoy the outdoors during the warmer months.

Identifying Chigger Bites

Chigger bites create itchy red bumps that can resemble pimples, blisters, or small hives and are typically found around the waist, ankles, or skin folds. These bites are notorious for their intensity and discomfort, growing itchier and more inflamed over several days, often appearing in groups. The irritation from chigger bites begins within hours of the chigger attaching to the skin, as they feed by inserting their feeding structures into the skin and injecting enzymes that cause the surrounding tissue to break down.

Chigger Season in Virginia

In Virginia, chiggers are most active from the onset of spring until the first frost in autumn. It's a common misconception that chiggers burrow into the skin; in reality, chigger larvae attach to the surface of the skin or at hair follicle rims, where they can cause severe itching and irritation.

At Mosquito Squad of Hampton Roads, our approach to chigger control combines precision and effectiveness. Recognizing the importance of preserving the aesthetic balance of your yard, our highly-trained technicians are careful not to treat bloomed plants that attract beneficial pollinators like bees. 

Our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

We stand behind our services with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We take pride in maintaining the beauty of your yard while effectively managing pests like chiggers. Our technicians are equipped with the expertise necessary to ensure that treatments are applied efficiently, minimizing any inconvenience and maximizing your chigger control results.

Our team at Mosquito Squad of Hampton Roads understands the unique challenges posed by chiggers in Virginia. With a high degree of training and a comprehensive understanding of local pests, our technicians ensure that chigger infestations are handled expertly, so your outdoor activities can proceed without the annoyance of these irritating pests.

Chiggers can be a problem from spring to fall. Rely on Mosquito Squad of Hampton Roads for chigger control and enjoy your outdoor spaces again! Contact us today at (757) 300-1839 to learn more about our effective chigger control solutions and how we can help you reclaim your outdoor spaces.