Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Found primarily in human dwellings, hidden in mattresses, bed frames, electrical outlets, and crevices near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, elusive, and photophobic; they emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (hemimetabolous), passing through five nymphal stages that each require a blood meal to molt.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress/insomnia. While they do not transmit diseases, they are considered significant public health pests that are difficult and expensive to eradicate.

Identified on: 3/31/2026