Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Typically found in cracks and crevices within human dwellings, particularly in furniture, mattresses, and bedding near where humans sleep.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophages, meaning they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal pests that hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They are attracted to heat and carbon dioxide. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, sleep deprivation, and psychological distress. While they are not known to transmit diseases to humans, infestations are difficult and expensive to eradicate. There are no ecological benefits to humans.

Identified on: 6/16/2026