Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Hemiptera; Cimicidae
Size
4 to 5 mm long (about the size of an apple seed)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Cracks and crevices near human sleeping areas, such as mattresses, bed frames, and baseboards

Diet & Feeding

Blood from humans or warm-blooded animals

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal parasites that hide during the day and emerge at night to feed; they undergo incomplete metamorphosis from egg to adult

Risks & Benefits

While not known to transmit diseases, their bites cause itching, allergic reactions, and significant psychological distress and sleep loss