Bed Bug

Scientific Name: Cimex lectularius

Order & Family: Hemiptera: Cimicidae

Size: 4 mm to 7 mm (about the size of an apple seed)

Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Found globally indoors, specifically in close proximity to human sleeping areas such as mattresses, bed frames, and upholstered furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (feeds exclusively on blood), primarily from humans but will also bite other warm-blooded animals.

Behavior Patterns

Mainly nocturnal; they hide in cracks and crevices during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, sleep deprivation, and psychological distress. While they do not transmit diseases, infestations are difficult to eradicate and require professional pest control.

Identified on: 2/4/2026