Common bed bugs

Identification

Size: Common bed bugs are typically about the size of an apple seed, approximately 5 – 7mm or 1/4 inch in length.

Color: Common bed bugs are a reddish-brown color and will darken after feeding on blood

Description: Common bed bugs are found throughout North America. They are oval-shaped, flattened insects and have six legs. They also have two antennae on their head and a number of small hairs. Common bed bugs can hide in cracks and crevices in furniture, bed frames, mattresses, walls, and other places where humans sleep. They are most active at night and feed primarily on human or animal blood.

Common bed bugs can be identified by their reddish-brown color, oval shape, and size. They can also be detected by the presence of their shed skins, eggs, or dark spots on mattresses and other surfaces. Common bed bug activity is usually noticed in the morning hours when they have recently finished feeding. Bed bugs are visible to the naked eye, but can be difficult to find in dark crevices. If you suspect bed bugs are present, it is recommended that you contact a licensed pest control professional to identify and confirm the presence of bed bugs.

Specially trained dogs can also detect bed bugs in your home. Dogs are able to sniff out bed bug infestations without the need for visual confirmation, making them a highly effective detection tool. Dog teams can be brought into homes and businesses to inspect for bed bugs and provide an accurate assessment of the presence or absence of the pests.

If you can manage to take a photograph of the bug in question, we offer a free pest identification service that can help you determine exactly what type of bug you are dealing with.

Common bed bug infestations are generally indicated by the presence of live bugs, shed skins, eggs, and dark spots on mattresses or other surfaces. You may also notice bites on yourself or other people in your home that were not present before. Bed bugs can hide in cracks and crevices in furniture, bed frames, mattresses, walls, and other places where humans sleep. Check for these signs of bed bug activity if you suspect an infestation.

There are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of bringing bed bugs into your home. When staying in a hotel or other lodging, inspect the mattress and surrounding area for signs of bed bug activity before you settle in for the night. When purchasing used furniture, do not bring it into your home until you have thoroughly inspected it for bed bug activity. Wash and dry all clothing, bedding, and other fabrics at high temperatures to kill any hidden bed bugs. Regularly vacuum your home and use mattress encasements on mattresses and box springs to help reduce the risk of a bed bug infestation. By following these simple prevention tips and being aware of the signs of common bed bug infestations, you can protect yourself and your home from this pesky pest.