Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Hemiptera (order), Cimicidae (family)
Size
4-5 mm (adults)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Primarily human dwellings, especially beds, mattresses, bed frames, and other furniture. They prefer cracks and crevices.

Diet & Feeding

Exclusively hematophagous, feeding on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals. They typically feed at night.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal; they hide during the day and emerge to feed at night. They are attracted to carbon dioxide and warmth. They do not fly or jump, but crawl. Bed bugs can survive for several months without a blood meal.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include itchy red welts (from bites), allergic reactions, secondary skin infections due to scratching, and psychological distress. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. There are no known benefits.