Ow! What Bit Me? Your Guide to Common Bug Bites and Stings
Nature is pretty good at defending itself—some plants are poisonous, animals have teeth and claws, and even insects are equipped with the ability to sting and bite.
While many insects can only irritate your skin, some can cause more significant damage. Keep reading for a complete guide to common bug bites and stings!
Common Bug Bites and Stings
We’re no strangers to bugs here in the South. We encounter various pests, from mosquitoes and spiders to flies and fire ants!
Here are some of the most common bug bites and stings you might encounter in Alabama, as well as how to know when something’s wrong.
#1: Mosquitoes
Of all common bug bites and stings, you’re probably most familiar with this one—in fact, you may be feeling a phantom itch right now! These insect bites are usually harmless and typically only result in a red, puffy bump on your skin that itches.
If you have multiple mosquito bites, they’ll usually be clustered together in the same area on your body.
#2: Fleas
You’ll want to stay aware of fleas, especially if you have pets! The main giveaway of a flea bite is the location: they’ll usually be on your feet or ankles, as most of the time, fleas live in carpets or on animals. They typically appear as small red bumps surrounded by a red halo.
#3: Chiggers
The arrival of summer means the arrival of chigger season here in the South! Much like flea bites, these bites will appear on the lower legs and feet because chiggers typically reside in tall grass.
Chigger bites can appear in a few forms—welts, blisters, pimples, or hives. If you’re hiking or camping in summer, wear tall socks and pants and avoid walking through taller grass!
#4: Spider Bites
Perhaps one of the most feared insects, spiders can cause serious harm depending on the species. One of these species, the brown recluse, is native to the South and likes to hide in dark places like closets and attics.
Spiders are typically nonaggressive (meaning they won’t bite unless they feel threatened), but you should carefully monitor any bite you receive. A spider bite will appear as a small patch of redness with a white blister in the middle.
Pain and itching should onset anywhere from two to eight hours after a spider bite, but sometimes symptoms can become more serious. If you experience fever, nausea or vomiting, or body aches after being bitten by a brown recluse, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Don’t Stress About Pests
Don’t let bugs ruin your outdoor (or indoor) fun this spring and summer!
Vulcan Termite & Pest Control has been serving the Birmingham area since 1965. We know all about the pests native to Alabama and how to get rid of them safely and effectively.
Get in touch with us today to get started, and enjoy a pest-free season!