Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Almost exclusively found indoors in close proximity to human sleeping areas. Common hiding spots include mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, electrical outlets, luggage, and cracks in furniture or walls.

Diet & Feeding

Hematophagous (blood-feeders). They feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily preferring humans.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and cryptic, emerging at night to feed on sleeping hosts. They are attracted to carbon dioxide and body heat. They do not fly or jump but crawl quickly. Known for clustering in harborages where they lay sticky white eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Their bites cause itchy red welts, allergic reactions, anxiety, and insomnia. While not known to transmit disease effectively to humans, heavy infestations can cause anemia. They are notorious psychological stressors and are difficult and expensive to eradicate. Benefits: None known.

Identified on: 2/16/2026