Chiggers in straw? Anyway to eliminate without hurting week old chicks

[bjw113]

UGH! We got our 24 babies a week ago, and all was well until I awoke covered in chigger (?) bites. From my research, I believe that is what they are. Have never had these before, and didn't have the problem until we brought in straw the day before our babies arrived. I am going to check the bales of straw to see if this is where they have come from, and if so, how do I get rid of the problem WITHOUT hurting the baby chicks? Any ideas? My husband is covered with bites as well. We don't have any brush or overgrown grass around the chicken house, so am assuming they are in the straw. HELP!!!

 

[bjw113]

Any advise?

 

[PriceFamilyFarms]

switch to pine shavings. chiggers like a hot, humid environment and straw is a perfect incubator for them. i used hydrated lime around the yard and coop area and we have not encountered them anymore.

hope this helps!