Bed Bug
A Bed Bug infestation is hard to get rid of without the right methods and pest control products. These parasites can quickly infest and their bites result in swelling without redness. However, when numerous Bed Bugs bite the same spot it can become red. While most bites may not result in anything but irritation, some people have been known to get allergic reactions.
Appearance
- Reddish-brown
- 4 - 5 mm long
- Flat and oval
- Dark and black stains on bed and surrounding area from pest’s bodily waste
- Blood spots on sheets
- An unpleasant sweet scent
Habits
- Feeding patterns are mostly nocturnal
- Behaviour is based around invading, multiplying and completely taking over the bed
- Able to go a whole year without feeding
- Can survive any temperature between freezing and 122°F
Life Cycle
- Bed Bugs have five immature nymph stages
- At the end of every stage they molt
- To complete a molt they must consume at least one blood meal
- Each immature stage lasts approximately one week
- This life cycle lasts approximately two months, while the lifespan of this pest is about nine months in warm conditions
- Fertilised females with enough food (blood) will lay 3 - 4 eggs a day and up to 500 eggs in its lifetime
Signs of Infestation
- Cast or shed bed bug skins
- Fecal spots on mattress and bedding
- Blood stains on sheets and pajamas
