If you’ve ever returned from a walk through tall grass or a day in the yard only to find yourself scratching at red, itchy welts, you may have had an encounter with chiggers. These tiny, almost invisible pests are notorious across the South, including right here in Nashville, and they can turn outdoor fun into an itchy nightmare.

At All Pest Solutions, we often get calls from homeowners confused about what bit them and how to stop it from happening again. In this guide, we’ll explain what chiggers are, how to identify their bites, where they live, and—most importantly—how to protect your family and yard.

What Are Chiggers?

Chiggers are the larval form of a type of mite called Trombiculidae. Unlike adult mites, which are harmless, chiggers in their larval stage are parasitic and feed on the skin of humans and animals. Though they’re technically arachnids—like spiders and ticks—chiggers are incredibly small (less than 1/150th of an inch), making them nearly impossible to see without magnification.

They don’t burrow into the skin, as commonly believed. Instead, chiggers attach themselves to your skin, inject enzymes that break down skin cells, and feed on the resulting liquid. The body reacts to this by forming an itchy, inflamed bump.

How to Identify Chigger Bites

Chigger bites are easy to confuse with other insect bites, but there are a few telltale signs:

• Clusters of red, itchy welts Often found in areas where clothing is tight, like waistbands, sock lines, underarms, and behind knees.
• Delayed itchiness It usually takes a few hours after exposure for the itching to begin, which can make it hard to pinpoint where you were bitten.
• Persistent irritation The itch can last for several days, and scratching often makes it worse, potentially leading to infection.

While chiggers don’t transmit diseases in the U.S., the intense itch and potential for secondary infection make them more than just a minor annoyance.

Where Do Chiggers Live in Nashville?

Chiggers thrive in warm, humid environments with dense vegetation, making Nashville summers the perfect time for an outbreak. Common habitats include:

• Overgrown grass and brush
• Weedy gardens and flower beds
• Forest edges and trails
• Piles of leaves or mulch
• Shady, moist areas of the lawn

Chiggers tend to climb onto humans and pets when brushing against vegetation. They are most active during spring and summer and are particularly concentrated in undisturbed areas of your yard or local parks.

How to Prevent Chigger Bites

Avoiding chigger bites is all about reducing exposure and taking preventive measures:

1. Dress Smart

• Wear long pants and long sleeves when walking through tall grass or wooded areas.
• Tuck your pants into your socks or boots to create a barrier.
• Choose light-colored clothing to more easily spot tiny pests.

2. Use Insect Repellent

• Apply a repellent containing DEET or permethrin to your clothing and exposed skin.
• Reapply as needed, especially after sweating or swimming.

3. Shower Promptly

• After spending time outdoors, shower as soon as possible and scrub your skin with soap to remove any lingering chiggers.
• Wash your clothes in hot water to kill any hitchhiking mites.

4. Maintain Your Yard

• Mow the lawn regularly and trim back overgrown vegetation.
• Remove leaf litter, woodpiles, and weeds.
• Keep gardens and flower beds tidy and free of excess mulch.

What to Do If You Have Chiggers in Your Yard

If you or your family members are repeatedly getting bitten while on your property, you may have a chigger infestation. DIY methods may not be enough, especially if your yard has areas that are difficult to manage on your own.

This is where All Pest Solutions can help. Our professional chigger control services are designed to:

• Identify high-risk areas of your yard
• Apply targeted, eco-friendly treatments
• Reduce populations of chiggers and other biting pests
• Offer advice to keep your outdoor spaces safe and enjoyable

We take the time to assess each property individually and create a plan that works for your specific environment and lifestyle.

Don’t Let Chiggers Take Over Your Summer

The last thing you want during a Nashville summer is to spend your time scratching and swatting. Chiggers may be tiny, but the discomfort they cause can be immense—and if left unchecked, they can make your yard feel more like a hazard than a haven.

If you suspect chiggers have taken hold in your yard, don’t wait. Contact All Pest Solutions today for expert advice, proven treatment options, and peace of mind. We’re here to help you enjoy your outdoor space—itch-free.