Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Bed bugs are typically found in human dwellings, particularly in beds, mattresses, bed frames, and furniture near sleeping areas. They also hide in cracks in walls, electrical outlets, and behind wallpaper.

Diet & Feeding

Bed bugs feed exclusively on blood, preferably human blood, but will also feed on pets and other warm-blooded animals if humans are not available.

Behavior Patterns

Bed bugs are primarily nocturnal, feeding on humans while they sleep. They are very adept at hiding in small crevices and cracks during the day. Females lay 1-5 eggs per day, which hatch in about 6-17 days, depending on temperature. Nymphs molt five times before reaching maturity, requiring a blood meal between each molt.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include itchy red welts from bites, secondary skin infections from scratching, and psychological distress from infestations. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. There are no known benefits of bed bugs to the ecosystem; they are considered a pest.

Identified on: 8/29/2025