What Bugs Bite In North Carolina?
Sometimes there’s nothing worse than a bug bite. They’re itchy, sore, and can even make you feel achy. It’s no mystery that bug bites are annoying and often painful, but where the mystery lies is which bug made a snack out of you. A bug bite doesn’t always mean you should be concerned. There are thousands of insects that don’t carry problematic bites, however, some do. When it comes to bug bites in North Carolina, it’s important to know and be able to identify which bug bit you, and if it should be a cause of concern.
Oftentimes different bug bites can appear similar and even cause similar symptoms. The list of biting insects in North Carolina is extensive, but this article will help you identify what bug bit you based on the bite it left behind.
FLEAS
Fleas are one of the most common pests found throughout the United States, especially in the Carolinas. Flea bites are red and itchy and appear to have a halo. Flea bites can appear anywhere on the skin and typically do not pose any immediate health risks. When a flea bite becomes an issue is if it becomes infected, in which case you should contact a medical professional immediately.
TICKS
Ticks are insects that feed on the blood of their hosts, both animal and human hosts. Tick bites may be painless initially, but can turn to a burning sensation.These bites tend to blister showcasing a red center outlined by a larger red ring. If the tick’s mouth is left in the wound it could lead to infection. Additionally, ticks can carry a wide range of diseases such as Lyme Disease.
BLACK FLIES
Black flies can be commonly found near the waterways of North Carolina. These insects leave two puncture marks on the skin followed by swelling. Black fly bites will be itchy and sore and can sometimes grow to be the size of a golf ball, but generally will heal on its own.
RED FIRE ANTS
Fire ants get their name from their appearance and the burning sensation they leave behind. Their bites appear as small red dots that tend to blister within the next day or so. The bites themselves are itchy and painful but do not cause any further problems. The only issue these bites may cause is in individuals with allergies.
BED BUGS
Bed bugs are small, nocturnal pests that feed on the blood of their hosts. Bites from these insects will appear in clusters on the skin as small red bumps with an identifiable center. These bites can become inflamed and will be itchy and can sometimes cause allergic reactions in certain individuals.
PAPER WASPS
Paper wasps don’t technically bite humans, but they leave behind an identifiable sting. These insects sting their victims, leaning behind a burning sensation and sometimes their stinger. Stings from paper wasps will leave behind redness, swelling and itching and generally won’t be an issue unless someone is allergic. Paper wasps may sometimes sting you multiple times in order to defend themselves.
CHIGGERS
Chiggers are the types of pests that leave their mark. After these insects bite, they burrow into the skin and lay their eggs. Their bites appear as tiny red-brown bites and grow to look like pimples or blisters. Chigger bites tend to heal on their own unless they become infected.
MOSQUITOES
Mosquito bites are extremely itchy and begin as soft bumps that become hard. As days pass the bites will grow larger. Mosquito bites are not generally dangerous, but they can be. Mosquitoes are known to carry a wide range of diseases so it’s important to seek medical attention if the bites are accompanied by headache, fever, nausea or fatigue.
Biting insects in North Carolina can be kept at bay by simple treatments and preventative strategies. Insect repellent and pest control services can help keep these biting insects from making a snack out of you and your family. Understanding and being able to identify which types of insects are biting you can help you take both preventative measures and treat the bites appropriately. Contact your local pest control company to find out what services are available for your North Carolina property.
