Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in human dwellings, particularly in mattresses, bed frames, furniture, and cracks in walls. They prefer dark, secluded areas close to their hosts.

Diet & Feeding

Exclusively blood feeders, primarily feeding on human blood, but will also feed on other warm-blooded animals if humans are not available. They are nocturnal, feeding while their hosts are asleep.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, hiding during the day and emerging to feed at night. They are highly adept at hiding in small crevices. Females lay 1-5 eggs per day, totaling hundreds in a lifetime. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis, passing through five nymphal stages before reaching adulthood, requiring a blood meal at each stage.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include itchy bites, which can lead to secondary skin infections from scratching. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions. While they are not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause significant discomfort and psychological distress. There are no known benefits to humans or the ecosystem.

Identified on: 9/5/2025