Bed Bug Shell Casing (Exuviae)

Natural Habitat

Primarily indoors, within cracks and crevices of mattresses, bed frames, furniture, and behind baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

Hematophagous (blood-feeding); they primarily feed on the blood of humans and occasionally other warm-blooded animals.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and secretive; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. The image shows cast-off skins (exuviae) shed during the molting process as they grow through five nymphal stages.

Risks & Benefits

Significant public health pest; bites can cause itchy welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. They do not typically transmit diseases but can cause secondary skin infections from scratching.

Identified on: 1/12/2026