Crossword Genius

Bugs tormented fledgelings having escaped shed (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

niggles

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'bugs' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with human feelings as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for niggles that I've seen before include "Slight but persistent anxieties" , "minor injuries" , "Petty but persistent annoyances" , "Small worries" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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