Chiggers are small parasitic mites. The larvae of chiggers feed on skin cells the adults do not feed on skin cells. The larvae jump onto a hosts body and settle in tightly clothed areas, top of socks and belt lines, they then insert their mouthpart into a skin pore of hair follicle. They then inject a salivary secretion that contains digestive enzymes that break down skin cells that are then ingested. Their bites cause small reddish welts that itches intensely, its killer, scratching aggravates the welt and makes it itch more and can produce sores that can easily become infected. The larvae of chiggers are usually orange, yellow or light red.