Technical Info

Bed Bugs – Cimex lectularius

• Color: mahogany to rusty brown; red after a blood meal
• Legs: 6
• Shape: flat; broad oval
• Size: 1/4 inch
• Antennae: true
• Region: non-restricted
• Bed bugs get their name because they like to live and feed in beds.

Habits: Bed bugs like to travel and will hide in suitcases, boxes and shoes to be near a food supply. They are elusive, nocturnal creatures. Bed bugs can hide behind baseboards, electrical switch plates, picture frames, even wall paper. They come out at night for a blood meal.

Habitat: Bed bugs hide in small cracks and crevices close to a human environment. They can be found behind baseboards, wallpaper, upholstery and in furniture crevices.

Threats: Although bed bugs can dine on any warm-blooded animal, they primarily dine on humans. Bed bugs do not transmit diseases, but their bites can become red, itchy welts.

Prevention:

• Vacuum suitcases after returning from a vacation.
• Check your bedsheets for tell-tale blood spots.
• Consider bringing a large plastic trash bag to keep your suitcase in during hotel stays.
• Carry a small flashlight to assist you with quick visual inspections.
• Bed bugs are elusive creatures, so it is imperative to seek the correct information on pest control and how to address an infestation.