Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in human dwellings, particularly in bedrooms. They infest mattresses, box springs, bed frames, headboards, furniture, and any cracks or crevices nearby. They can also be found in luggage, clothing, and other personal items, allowing them to spread easily between locations.

Diet & Feeding

Exclusively hematophagous, meaning they feed on blood, primarily from humans, but also from other mammals and birds.

Behavior Patterns

Bed bugs are primarily nocturnal, feeding on hosts while they sleep. They are attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide. They often hide in cracks and crevices during the day, such as mattress seams, bed frames, furniture, or walls. They are resilient and can survive for several months without a blood meal.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include itchy red welts, allergic reactions, secondary skin infections from scratching, and significant psychological distress due to infestations. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. There are no direct benefits to humans, but they are part of the broader ecosystem as a food source for other insects.

Identified on: 9/4/2025