Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Indoor human environments, particularly in mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and cracks or crevices near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Nightly activity patterns; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and can survive months without a meal.

Risks & Benefits

Significant public health pests; their bites can cause itchy welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. They do not typically transmit diseases but are difficult and expensive to eradicate.

Identified on: 2/9/2026