Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Primarily human dwellings, especially beds, mattresses, bed frames, and cracks/crevices near sleeping areas. They can also be found in hotels, apartments, public transportation, and other shared spaces.

Diet & Feeding

Exclusively feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals, with a strong preference for human blood.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal feeders, emerging from their hiding spots to feed on sleeping hosts. They are attracted to carbon dioxide and body heat. Bites often appear in a linear pattern or clustered, commonly referred to as 'breakfast, lunch, and dinner.' They are resilient and can survive for several months without a blood meal.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include itchy red welts (the bites can cause significant irritation, discomfort, and secondary skin infections from scratching), allergic reactions (hives, asthma), and psychological distress (anxiety, insomnia). They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. There are no known benefits to humans or the ecosystem.

Identified on: 9/5/2025