Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Primarily indoor environments where humans reside, specifically in cracks, crevices, mattresses, and bed frames near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly hematophagous (blood-feeders), preferentially feeding on human blood but will also bite other warm-blooded animals.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal insects that emerge at night to feed. They sense warmth and CO2 to find hosts. They go through five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to molt at each stage.

Risks & Benefits

Significant public health pests that cause itchy, red welts through bites. While not known to transmit diseases, infestation can lead to psychological distress, insomnia, and secondary skin infections from scratching.

Identified on: 5/30/2026