Chinch Bug

Chinch bugs are small, sap-feeding insects that live in lawns and feed on grass. They are only reach about a quarter of an inch in length (around the size of a grain of rice). When they are young, they are brightly colored, usually red or orange. As they grow, their bodies darken into a darker color. They have wings that fold across their backs, making a triangular or "x" pattern on the top of their body. They are oval and appear fairly flat.

Virginia lawns can be affected by a few different chinch bug species, including the hairy chinch bug and common chinch bug. These pests are particularly active during warmer months, and they tend to thrive in sunny areas with thick thatch (the layer of dead grass and organic material between the soil and living grass). There are also certain types of grass, like fine fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass, that can be especially susceptible to chinch bug feeding, and are also popular choices for Virginia lawns.