Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Primarily human dwellings, especiallybeds, mattresses, bed frames, and cracks in walls; also found in furniture, luggage, and clothing.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly hematophagous, feeding only on blood, primarily human blood.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, typically feeding at night while humans are sleeping. They are attracted to carbon dioxide, warmth, and certain chemicals. They hide in crevices during the day. Females lay eggs in secluded places.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Bed bugs are considered pests. Their bites can cause itchy welts, skin irritation, and, in some cases, allergic reactions. They can also lead to secondary skin infections from scratching and, for some individuals, cause psychological distress, anxiety, and sleep deprivation. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. Benefits: None known for humans or the ecosystem; they are solely parasitic.

Identified on: 9/27/2025