What do bed bugs look like?

Birch Fumigators has been operating in Edmonton for over 100 years and is proud to be one of the city’s oldest and most reliable pest control companies. We are a family-owned and operated business, and we take pride in our work. Contact Birch Fumigators today to book a service!

Checking for bed bugs involves a thorough inspection of your sleeping areas, primarily the bed and surrounding furniture. Use a bright flashlight to examine the seams, folds, and undersides of mattresses, box springs, and pillows. Look closely at bed frames, headboards, and bedside tables, especially within cracks and crevices. Bed bugs leave behind small, reddish-brown bugs (ranging from the size of a pinhead to an apple seed), tiny white eggs, rust-colored stains from crushed bugs, and black or brown fecal spots. While the bed is a primary hotspot, also inspect chairs, sofas, and other furniture pieces. If you suspect an infestation, it’s advisable to seek professional pest control assistance.

Bed bug bites typically manifest as small, red, raised or flat welts on the skin. They are often itchy and can become swollen or inflamed. One distinguishing feature of bed bug bites is their pattern; they often appear in a line or cluster, as if the bug has bitten the individual multiple times while moving. This pattern is sometimes referred to as “breakfast, lunch, dinner.” It’s worth noting that reactions to bed bug bites can vary significantly among individuals. Some people may not exhibit any visible signs or symptoms, while others might experience an allergic reaction leading to larger red, swollen areas or even blisters. Additionally, the bites can take anywhere from a few hours to several days to appear, making it sometimes challenging to pinpoint when or where the exposure occurred.

The frequency of pest control services largely depends on factors such as the type of pest, the extent of the infestation, your location, and the nature of your property. Some pests, like cockroaches, ants, or rodents, reproduce rapidly and are particularly resilient, thus potentially necessitating monthly treatments until the issue is under control. Severe infestations might also require more regular treatments initially, followed by a less frequent maintenance schedule once the problem is resolved. Even in the absence of a current pest issue, many opt for preventative pest control, commonly administered on a quarterly basis, to preempt potential infestations. Certain properties, especially those like restaurants or businesses that handle food, are more prone to pest infestations and, therefore, often need more frequent pest control services.

The time it takes to get rid of carpenter ants depends on the size and severity of the infestation. A professional exterminator like Birch Fumigators can get rid of carpenter ants quickly and efficiently. Call us today for a free consultation.

If you believe you have bed bugs, please let us know so that we can conduct an inspection of your home. Bed bugs are difficult to remove, therefore it is critical to hire a professional. Our highly trained experts will collaborate with you to create a treatment strategy that works best for you.