Bed bug

Natural Habitat

Human dwellings, specifically in cracks, crevices, mattresses, bed frames, and furniture near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Mainly nocturnal; they emerge from hiding at night to feed. They go through five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to molt at each stage. They are known for hitchhiking on luggage or clothing to spread to new locations.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, skin infections from scratching, and significant psychological distress or insomnia. They do not typically transmit diseases to humans. There are no known ecosystem benefits for this species in human environments.

Identified on: 6/1/2026