Common Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Found in human dwellings, especially in bedrooms. They hide in mattresses, bed frames, headboards, cracks in walls, furniture, and even electrical outlets. They are adept at hitchhiking in luggage, clothing, and used furniture, leading to new infestations.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Bed bugs are primarily nocturnal, feeding on humans (or other warm-blooded animals) while they sleep. They are very adept at hiding in cracks and crevices, making them difficult to detect. Females lay 1-5 eggs per day, up to 500 in a lifetime, usually in secluded locations. The nymphs (immature bed bugs) molt five times, requiring a blood meal between each molt, before reaching adulthood.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks: Bed bugs are considered a nuisance pest. Their bites can cause itchy welts, leading to skin irritation, allergic reactions in some individuals, and secondary skin infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. Potential benefits: None for humans; however, they are part of the larger ecosystem.

Identified on: 8/13/2025