Have you ever woken up with mysterious, itchy red bumps on your body? If so, you could be the victim of bed bug infestation. But how do you know what type of bed bug is causing the problem? Knowing this information can help you treat the issue effectively and prevent a full-blown infestation. Here’s a look at the three main types of bed bugs found in Canada.
Common Bed Bugs:
The most common type of bed bug encountered in Canada is the Cimex lectularius or common bedbug. These are typically reddish-brown in color and flat-bodied, growing to about 5 mm in length when mature. They feed on human blood and reproduce quickly if left unchecked. They are most active at night and prefer warm temperatures, making them a common pest for areas like houses and apartments where people are present 24/7.
Bat Bugs:
Bat bugs are similar to common bedbugs but tend to have long hairs on their bodies, giving them a more fuzzy appearance than common bedbugs. They also tend to be larger than common bed bugs; adults can grow up to 7mm in length! While they’re not as commonly encountered as common bedbugs, bat bugs can still cause problems – especially if the area has an existing bat population that could potentially provide an additional food source for them. If you think you may have bat bugs instead of common bedbugs, it’s important to contact a professional pest control company right away for proper identification and treatment.
Swallow Bugs:
Swallow bugs are usually found near bird nests, such as those of swallows or other cavity-nesting birds (e.g., woodpeckers). Oftentimes, swallow bugs are mistaken for bed bugs. They are smaller and quite similar in appearance. Swallow bugs prefer to consume bird blood, but they will also go for humans.
Bed bugs can be tricky pests to identify without professional help – even if you think you know what type of bug is causing the problem! That’s why Birch Fumigators offers a free pest identification service so customers can get accurate answers quickly. To take advantage of this service, simply send us a photo via our website, and we will let you know what kind of pest it is. Once identified, we will devise an effective treatment plan to keep your home safe from future infestations. So don’t hesitate to contact us today!