Pest Videos

Transcript

Bed bugs are one of the most well-known pests in America. One out of five people have had a bed bug infestation or knows someone who has encountered them. While typically associated with travel and hotels, bed bugs can be found almost anywhere people live and gather. 

Bed bugs are found in places like nursing homes, college dorms, office buildings, hospitals, and even our homes. In fact, pest control professionals report treating for bed bugs in single family homes and apartments or condominiums more than in hotels and motels. 

Bed bugs are elusive creatures, and only grow to about 3/16’’ of an inch in length, making them difficult to find and identify. A typical adult is about the size of an apple seed while nymphs can be as small as poppy seeds. Although they become swollen, elongated and redder in color after feeding, they are still quite small and will promptly seek cover. 

Females can lay 1-5 eggs per day and are able to produce over 500 eggs in their lifetime. It only takes about 21 days for bed bug nymphs to become adults, allowing undetected infestations to quickly grow.

Bed bugs are attracted to the carbon dioxide that humans exhale, as it’s an indication of a potential nearby host. Bed bugs tend to congregate in bedrooms since we are constantly breathing and producing CO2 for extended periods of time while we sleep. 

Bed bug bites can develop into red, itchy, and swollen welts, typically in a line or small clusters. Everyone reacts differently to bites, as some people will exhibit redness and swelling after only a few minutes, while others won’t show signs for over a day. Some people may have no symptoms or markings at all. 

Bed bug infestations can be hard to identify and even more difficult to control, so it’s important to contact a licensed pest control professional when dealing with infestations.