Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Human dwellings, specifically in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas such as mattresses, headboards, and bedside furniture.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to molt at each stage.

Risks & Benefits

No known benefits. Risks include itchy skin rashes, psychological distress, allergic reactions, and secondary skin infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans.

Identified on: 1/30/2026