Bugs That Bite and How to Identify Them

Bugs are a part of life—especially during warm-weather months in the Treasure Valley. Some bug bites are mostly annoying, while others can be painful or (in some cases) associated with illness. Mosquitoes, bed bugs, fleas, ticks, chiggers, ants, and spiders are among the most common culprits in and around homes.

While only a healthcare provider can diagnose the cause of a bite, rash, or allergic reaction, understanding which bugs commonly bite people—and the patterns they can cause—can help you decide what to do next and how to reduce your risk going forward.

Related links: Pest Resources | Contact Us | Bed Bug Treatment

Common Bugs That Bite and How to Recognize Them

Important note: bite appearance alone isn’t a perfect ID tool. Different pests can cause similar-looking bumps, and different people react differently. Use the information below as a guide—and seek medical advice when symptoms are concerning.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are small flying insects that feed on blood and are often most active at dawn and dusk—especially near standing water.

• Appearance: Slender body, long legs, and a long proboscis (mouthpart).
• Typical bites: Small, raised, itchy bumps on exposed skin (arms, legs, ankles).
• Concerns: In some regions, mosquitoes can carry viruses such as West Nile virus.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, flat, reddish-brown insects that hide near sleeping areas—mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, and cracks around the bed.

• Appearance: About the size of an apple seed; wingless; more reddish after feeding.
• Typical bites: Small, red, itchy bumps that may appear in lines or clusters on exposed areas while sleeping (arms, shoulders, neck, back).
• Concerns: Bites can disrupt sleep, and infestations require thorough treatment. Learn more on our bed bug treatment page.

Fleas

Fleas are tiny jumping insects commonly associated with pets and wildlife. They may bite people—often around ankles and lower legs.

• Appearance: Very small, dark brown, flattened sideways; moves by jumping.
• Typical bites: Small red bumps, often in groups or clusters (ankles, legs, tight clothing areas).
• Concerns: Effective control usually involves treating pets plus the indoor environment (and sometimes outdoors).

Ticks

Ticks are arachnids (related to spiders) that attach to the skin and feed on blood. They’re commonly found in tall grass, brush, and outdoor edges.

• Appearance: Flat, oval body that enlarges after feeding; typically brown or black.
• Typical bites: Often painless at first; may leave a small red area. Ticks can remain attached for many hours if not removed.
• Concerns: Certain tick species can transmit illnesses such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever or Lyme disease. If you find a tick attached or develop flu-like symptoms, rash, or joint pain afterward, contact a healthcare provider.

Chiggers

Chiggers are tiny mite larvae often found in grass, weeds, and wooded areas during warm seasons.

• Appearance: Very small and difficult to see; sometimes described as tiny red/orange specks.
• Typical bites: Intensely itchy red bumps or welts—often around sock lines, waistbands, and tight clothing areas.
• Concerns: Scratching can lead to secondary skin irritation or infection.

Ants

Some ant species bite or sting when disturbed. (Fire ants are not common in all regions.)

• Appearance: Varies by species; usually small, brown, black, or red.
• Typical bites/stings: Localized burning or stinging sensation, sometimes followed by a small blister or pustule.
• Concerns: Most are localized, but allergic reactions can occur in sensitive individuals.

Spiders

Many spider bites are mild. A small number of species can cause more significant symptoms depending on the region and the person.

• Appearance: Varies widely; many household spiders are harmless and avoid people.
• Typical bites: Localized redness, swelling, and tenderness.
• Concerns: If you suspect a serious spider bite or symptoms worsen, contact a healthcare provider promptly.

Remember: it can be very difficult to identify a pest based on a bite alone. If you’re worried about a bite, your symptoms, or infection risk, it’s best to talk with a medical professional.

What Do Bug Bites Typically Look and Feel Like?

Insect bites and stings can cause a range of skin reactions. Common signs include:

• Redness or a small bump at the bite site
• Itching or mild burning
• Localized swelling
• Tenderness or mild pain

In some cases, secondary issues can develop if bites are repeatedly scratched or if the skin becomes infected. Signs of possible infection can include increased warmth, pus, or spreading redness.

Some people may also experience broader symptoms after multiple bites or sensitivity to saliva/venom, such as:

• Widespread rash or hives
• Headache or fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Aches and pains

If you have serious or rapidly worsening symptoms—or any concern about illness after a bite—contact a healthcare provider promptly.

General Tips for Caring for Minor Bug Bites

The right approach depends on your health and the situation, so follow your healthcare provider’s guidance. For many minor bites, common comfort measures may include:

• Gently washing the area with soap and water
• Using a cool compress to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Using over-the-counter products as directed by the label or your healthcare provider

If you have a known history of serious reactions to bites or stings, your healthcare provider may recommend additional precautions or emergency medications.

How to Reduce Bug Bites Around Your Home

Reducing bites usually comes down to two things: lowering pest activity around the home and reducing opportunities for pests to feed, hide, or breed.

1. Limit standing water and outdoor breeding sites

• Dump standing water from buckets, toys, plant saucers, and other containers.
• Keep gutters clear so water drains properly.
• Refresh birdbaths and pet water bowls regularly.

2. Make indoor and outdoor spaces less inviting

• Vacuum and launder bedding regularly to help reduce bed bug and flea pressure.
• Keep pets on a veterinarian-recommended flea and tick prevention plan.
• Keep grass mowed and trim tall weeds where ticks and chiggers may live.
• Seal cracks and gaps to help keep insects, spiders, and other pests from entering.

3. Use personal protection when needed

• Follow public health guidance on using EPA-registered repellents when appropriate.
• Wear long sleeves and pants in areas with high mosquito or tick activity.
• Check for ticks after time in tall grass, brush, or wooded edges.

When Pest Control Can Help

Treating a bite is a medical issue—but reducing the pests causing bites is where professional pest control can help, especially for problems like bed bugs, fleas, and recurring ant or spider activity.

If you’re seeing ongoing insect activity in your home or yard in Boise, Nampa, Meridian, Kuna, or nearby communities, a local pest professional can:

• Identify which pests are present (and where they’re coming from)
• Recommend targeted treatments for your situation
• Help reduce pest populations that may be contributing to frequent bites

To learn more about service options in your area, you can connect with our team through our Kuna service location, browse our Pest Resources, or contact us directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you tell what bit you just by looking at the bite?

Not always. Many bites look similar, and different people react differently. A healthcare provider is the best person to evaluate concerning bites—especially if symptoms are severe or worsening.

Are most bug bites dangerous?

Most bug bites cause mild, local reactions like itching and redness. However, bites and stings can be more serious for people with allergies or when certain pests are involved. If you’re worried about symptoms, contact a medical professional.

When should I seek emergency help after a bite or sting?

Seek emergency medical care right away if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, chest tightness, dizziness, or confusion after a bite or sting—these can be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

How can pest control help reduce bug bites?

By targeting pests like bed bugs, fleas, mosquitoes, ants, spiders, and other biting pests in and around your home, professional pest control can help reduce encounters that lead to frequent bites.