Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Small, oval insect that feeds on humans in the night.

Overview:

Bed bugs originated in the Middle East and were transported around the world on human beings. Originally discovered in North America in 1748, they were virtually eliminated in the U.S. during the 1940s through the use of DDT. However, due to increases in international travel and pesticide regulations, they have become more common in recent years. Although bedbugs have been associated with over 25 different disease organisms, they are not known to transmit diseases to humans.  However, their bites may result in itchy, red welts often found in lines or clusters on the body.

Biology and Behavior:

• 3/16 inch long; oval and flattened; can survive 6-7 months without feeding
• Females deposit 1-5 eggs/ day over a 2-month period; average of 200 eggs/female 
• Life cycle: egg-adult in 21 days at 86*F; egg-laying inhibited below 60*F
• Simple metamorphosis (egg-nymph-adult); Five nymph instars.
• Nocturnal, feeds after dark. Only feeds on blood (primarily human). 
• Cause allergic reaction 80% of time.
• Typically lives within cracks/crevices in or around bedding and furniture.
• Emits a sickly-sweet, raspberry-like odor. 
• Deposits fecal pellets (spots) here and there on surfaces (e.g., corners of furniture)
• Introduced into new areas via bedbug-infested humans, belongings and furniture.

Control Tips:

• Mattress buttons and beading; box springs; crevices of wooden bed frames.
• Behind picture frames and within nightstands. 
• Baseboards and floor board cracks; door and window frames
• Stuffed furniture such as sofas and recliners.
• Behind loose wallpaper; in electric sockets and along electrical conduits.
• Have been found in buses, boats, trains and airplanes.
• Along ceiling/wall junctures; behind curtains.

Action Pest Control Services

• Bed Bug Heat Remediation