Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Human dwellings, specifically in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas such as mattresses, box springs, and bed frames

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal insects that emerge at night to feed. They go through five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal between each stage and before laying eggs. They do not fly or jump but crawl quickly

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, sleep deprivation, and secondary skin infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans but cause significant psychological distress and economic burden

Identified on: 3/17/2026