Bug Identifier
Bed Bug (Signs of Infestation)
Community identification

Bed Bug (Signs of Infestation)

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera, Family Cimicidae
Size
1 to 7 millimeters (adults are roughly the size of an apple seed).
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Cracks and crevices in bedrooms, mattress seams, headboards, and upholstered furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal insects that hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They are attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide. They do not fly but can crawl rapidly.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy skin rashes, psychological distress, and allergic reactions. While not known to transmit diseases, their presence causes significant sleep disruption and requires professional pest control to eradicate.