Prairie Lawn Critters and Pests

(Page 4 of 4)

June/July 2001
 
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CHIGGERS

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Chiggers are the microscopic larvae of the tiny red harvest mite, found in lawns and meadows over much of the continent. They lurk on tips of grasses to hitch a ride on any passing warm-blooded creature. They prefer rodents, dogs or deer, but will snag a passing human and migrate to anyplace clothing fits snugly - sock tops, waist bands, legs and the waist, where a baby's diaper fits snugly. A chigger's bite elicits an allergic reaction in many and will raise a large, red, itching welt that can last for days. Scratching just makes it worse. Your best offense is a strong defense.

*Keep the baby in a playpen or on a blanket rather than out in the grass. An immediate warm bath will remove chiggers that haven't yet dug in.

*Keep grass short and dry to discourage female mites from laying eggs. They will seek out more favorable conditions elsewhere.

*Apply repellents containing DEET to socks and other tight clothing spots.

*Pyrethrum - applied liberally to a freshly mowed lawn in April or early May - will control populations in limited areas.

If, despite protective measures, you still get chewed upon by chiggers, an age-appropriate antihistamine medication taken internally or a topical ointment applied liberally can help to reduce the miserable itching.

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