Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Inhabits human dwellings, specifically in cracks, crevices, mattress seams, bed frames, and behind wallpaper in dark locations near hosts.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (blood-feeders), primarily feeding on human blood but will also bite other warm-blooded mammals and birds.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal parasites that hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and require a blood meal to molt at each stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, sleep deprivation, and psychological distress. While they do not transmit pathogens to humans, heavy infestations can cause anemia. They provide no known ecosystem benefits in human environments.

Identified on: 3/17/2026