General Red Spider Mite (RSM) Information

[HSG]

Ahh yes, a natural nemesis of the hot springer, the Red Spider Mite (RSM) is known to inhabit a few hot springs. Barley visible to the naked eye, these tiny crimson mites scurry about on rocks and the top of water in and around select hot springs in Idaho and the Northwest.

They cling to the body (including clothing left next to the pools) and proceed to bite the skin in an unsuccessful attempt to lay eggs. The bites leave itchy red sores behind that usually heal completely after a couple weeks. It is highly advisable to use itch relief cream and avoid itching the bites. The human immune system kills off the eggs before they can hatch and eventually builds up enough immunity to kill off the mites themselves.

Precautionary Measures

    * Avoid the hot, dry rocks near and next to hot springs as the majority of RSMs inhabit this area.
    * Use bug juice, but only after your soak - RSMs usually wait to dig-in until their host has dry skin, applying bug juice after soaking should reduce your chances of receiving bites.

[boiselarry]

I have been thinking about the RSM in regards to BV HS as it has made the last few trips there almost completely unenjoyable. In fact on my last trip i left early as the itching got so bad. Since I went there for a lot of years before the RSM problem began to occur, I began to wonder why these ugly creatures were beginning to appear in more and more HS.

The question I have come up with is, I wonder if we hot springers are carrying the eggs for these things from spring to spring as we visit? There seems to be more and more HS infected with these bugs, and what can be the answer to why they are increasing their range?

[HSG]

Hi Larry,

I've been wondering the same thing myself. And, to note, most of the afflicted hot springs are either grouped together or have at least another one nearby. I really like your theory, it makes logical sense. We inadvertently transport invasive weeds all over the place.

RSMs can often be found in gardens as well. So, in addition to hot springers trafficking the mites, gardeners could be doing the same as well. What's also interesting is that the little buggars seem to flourish at the hot springs. Almost all low-level infestations eventually result in high activity levels.