Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Found globally indoors in human dwellings, typically nesting in mattress seams, bed frames, cracks, crevices, and carpet edges.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans. They pierce the skin with a rostrum to feed.

Behavior Patterns

Mainly nocturnal and elusive; they hide during the day and are attracted to heat and carbon dioxide emitted by sleeping hosts. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: Significant public health pest causing itchy red welts (bites), allergic reactions, insomnia, and psychological distress. While they do not transmit diseases, they are difficult and expensive to eradicate. Benefit: None to humans or the indoor ecosystem.

Identified on: 3/9/2026