Bed Bug
Scientific Name: Cimex lectularius
Order & Family: Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
Size: Adults are typically 4-5 mm long and 1.5-3 mm wide; nymphs are smaller (1-4 mm) and translucent to light tan.
Natural Habitat
Found worldwide, primarily infesting human dwellings. They tend to live in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas, such as mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, and behind wallpaper or baseboards.
Diet & Feeding
Hematophagous (blood-feeding); they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, preferring humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and cryptic generally hiding during the day and emerging at night to feed. They are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide. They do not fly or jump but crawl quickly. Females lay tiny white eggs in secluded areas.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Bed bugs cause itchy, red welts on skin, allergic reactions, anxiety, and insomnia. While not known to transmit diseases directly, their bites can lead to secondary skin infections from scratching. Benefits: None known for humans or the general household ecosystem.
Identified on: 2/21/2026