Tiny Red Bugs on Lawn Blanket: Harmless Chinch Bug Nymphs

Masses of tiny red bugs on a blanket in Massachusetts—these are chinch bug nymphs (red nymph stage). They feed on grass but rarely damage lawns severely.

What to Do

• Ignore them: They develop wings and disperse by summer.
• Soap spray (if desired): 3 tsp lemon dish soap per gallon water; spray lawn. Breaks down thatch, improves water penetration.

No Health Risk

They don't bite humans or pets. No control needed unless lawn shows yellowing patches (then treat for chinch bugs properly).