Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Typically found in human dwellings, nesting in mattress seams, bed frames, cracks and crevices, and behind wallpaper or baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (blood-feeders), primarily targeting humans but occasionally feeding on other warm-blooded animals.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal parasites that emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and require a blood meal for each molting stage and egg production.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, sleep deprivation, and psychological distress. While not known to transmit diseases to humans, infestations are difficult and costly to eradicate.

Identified on: 2/26/2026