Bed bugs may be tiny, but these pests are prevalent problems for home and business owners nearly everywhere globally, including in all 50 states. In Gilbert and elsewhere, bed bugs commonly find their way into establishments where people live or frequent, and they mainly do so by hitching a ride on clothing or personal items, unbeknownst to us.
Because bed bugs are so small and can remain unseen for some time, you will find that the adults are about an apple seed’s size and shape. They tend to retreat to dark, hard-to-reach places during the day, remaining out of sight. You may notice signs of a bed bug infestation before you spot any actual bugs.
Read on for more about and why bed bug bites are usually the first sign of an infestation. Also, learn how and why they bite us and some additional signs you should to look for.
How To Identify Bed Bugs
Bed bugs have flat, oval-shaped bodies that are reddish-brown in color and measure five to seven millimeters in length. Their nymphs are similar in appearance, but they are smaller and lighter.
Bed bugs are sometimes mistaken for other , fleas, ticks, booklice, cockroach nymphs, and even spiders.
Bed Bug Bites—The First Sign Of An Infestation
The first is usually bed bug bites. Bed bugs exclusively feed on warm-blooded mammals, such as humans and our pets. The carbon dioxide we emit during sleep further attracts bed bugs to us, so they can conveniently hang around their food source. They tend to nest close by to where people sleep, predominantly in bedrooms, though they may also infest other areas of a home or business as well.
When bed bugs bite us, it produces a raised, itchy bump with a darkened center and swelling surrounding the bite site, also accompanied by a burning sensation. Because more than one bed bug feeds at a time, it’s common to have three or four bed bug bites, or clusters, on areas of the body that are left exposed during sleep, such as on hands, arms, and legs.
Other Telltale Signs Of A Bed Bug Infestation
If you suspect bed bugs are in your , and especially if you are experiencing bites that resemble bed bug bites, there are a few other signs to consider that may indicate that you, indeed, have a bed bug infestation. Here are five indications:
- Bloodstains left behind on bedding or pajamas from bed bug bites.
- Dark or rust-colored spots on bedding, pajamas, or nearby walls, caused by bed bug excrement.
- Bed bug residue, such as eggshell casings, shed skins, and fecal matter, surround the bed bug nest.
- A musty odor caused by the bed bugs’ sweat glands has been described as similar to almonds, raspberries, or cilantro; a severe infestation may smell identical to dirty laundry, rust, or wet towels.
- Live bed bugs, which indeed indicate a sign of their presence.
Put Your Bed Bug Infestation To Rest With Professional Help
It’s challenging and unlikely for homeowners to eradicate a bed bug infestation on their own because of bed bugs’ habit of hiding in hard-to-reach places, something that makes it even more challenging to find every bed bug. If you spot signs of bed bugs, call the professionals at Green Home Pest Control right away. With over 30 years of experience, we provide and other pests in the Gilbert area.
For advice and assistance, give us a call at 480-525-7378.
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21 years of pest control experience
Founder and Owner of Green Home Pest Control
13 year resident of Arizona
