Bed Bug

Category:

Actual Size: Less than 6 mm

Characteristics: Oval, flat, and mahogany brown to red-brown.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: No

Habitat: Nearly anywhere that humans rest or sleep. Can spread in public or shared spaces such as public transportation, hotels, movie theaters, and more.

Habits: 

  • Bites are painless and often go undetected.
  • Feeds exclusively on the blood of humans and mammals.
  • When disturbed, gives off a musty, sweet odor from their scent glands.


Bed Bugs in San Angelo

Bed bugs, present in all 50 states, are nighttime insects that solely feed on blood. While humans are their primary host, they also feed on birds and mammals. These elusive creatures hide in cracks and crevices, choosing secluded spots to avoid disturbance. Bed bugs prefer to feed at night when their host is asleep, and they can survive for over a year without a blood meal. Since their bites are essentially painless, they often go undetected during their feeding activity.

Bed Bug Habitat

Bed bugs are social insects that thrive in places where humans spend prolonged periods resting or sleeping. They often get unknowingly transported from one location to another as people travel. These pests cleverly hide in the seams and folds of luggage, overnight bags, bedding, furniture, and any other suitable hiding spot. Bed bugs can be discovered in various places, including homes, hotels, apartments, schools, medical facilities, and other public spaces. They prefer to take refuge in cracks, crevices, and seams in headboards, mattresses, luggage, backpacks, and upholstered furniture.

Bed Bug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Bed bugs are not carriers of diseases and are generally considered harmless. However, multiple bites from these insects may trigger allergic reactions that might require medical attention. The initial indication of a bed bug infestation could be the appearance of bites on the skin or the presence of small brownish dots on the bed. These pests gain access to people through used furniture, bedding, luggage, or other objects that are moved from one place to another. They can also travel through shared pipes between neighboring apartments or hotel rooms. Bed bug bites might go unnoticed on some individuals who have been bitten, while others may experience welt-like swelling in a straight line on the skin at the site of the bite. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it is advisable to contact a professional bed bug exterminator.