Bed Bug (Nymph/First Stage)

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments close to human hosts, primarily in crevices of mattresses, box springs, bed frames, furniture, and behind baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

Hematophagous (feeds exclusively on blood, preferring human blood but will feed on other mammals or birds if necessary).

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal but opportunistic; they are attracted to body heat and CO2. They transition through 5 identifiable nymph stages before adulthood, requiring a blood meal to molt into the next stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Bed bugs cause itchy bites, allergic reactions, anxiety, and insomnia. They are significant pests that are difficult and expensive to eradicate. Benefits: None known in a domestic context.

Identified on: 2/10/2026