Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Found in human dwellings, typically in cracks and crevices, mattress seams, bed frames, and furniture near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (blood-feeders), primarily targeting humans but will occasionally feed on other warm-blooded animals.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, hiding during the day and emerging at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and require a blood meal to progress to each life stage.

Risks & Benefits

While not known to transmit diseases, they cause significant psychological distress, sleep deprivation, and allergic reactions or skin infections from itching. They offer no ecosystem benefits in human environments and are difficult to eradicate.

Identified on: 2/16/2026