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Bedbug Appearance and Size Facts
Bedbugs are one of the most infamous pests around, known for lurking in the shadows of bedrooms across the globe. Their name is derived from their preferred habitat—mattresses, bedding, and other areas we sleep—where they emerge at night to feast on human blood. While not known to transmit diseases, these pests can cause a range of issues from itchy welts to allergic reactions, and their stealthy reproduction habits make them hard to eliminate.
Some commonly observed qualities of bedbugs include:
- Reddish brown. Bedbugs are typically a dark, auburn color, though they appear lighter when younger.
- Oval-shaped bodies. You can identify bedbugs by their oval, flattened bodies, which allow them to hide in narrow crevices.
- Tiny in size. Bedbugs are almost always between three-sixteenths and one-quarter inch long, about the size of an apple seed.
- Swelling when fed. After termites are done feasting on human blood, they swell up and bloat.
Distinguishing Bedbugs From Fleas and Other Bugs
If you don’t know the difference, it can be hard to tell if you’re looking at bedbugs or another small brown insect. However, bedbugs have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Unlike many other insects, they are wingless and cannot fly, although they are notoriously fast runners.
Arguably the most common mistake is made between bedbugs and fleas. While similar, fleas are more elongated and jump around, while bedbugs are oval-shaped and crawl. You also may be wondering how to tell if you’ve been bit by a bedbug. Unlike flea bites, which are randomly scattered, bedbug bites often appear in lines or clusters.
We offer bed bug treatment in the following locations and their surrounding areas:
Behavior and Habitat of Bed Bugs
Like most bloodsucking arthropods, bedbugs inject saliva with anticoagulant properties when they bite. Bedbugs respond to the warmth and carbon dioxide of their host and quickly locate a suitable feeding site. Most feeding occurs at night, though they sometimes bite during the day, especially if starved for some time. While this is the case, they can survive for long periods without feeding. While their preferred host is humans, they will attack a wide variety of other animals, including rodents, rabbits, bats, and even birds.
Signs of Infestation of Bed Bugs
The most obvious sign of a bedbug infestation is the presence of blood stains. Look out for black or brown stains on porous surfaces and black or brown mounds on nonporous surfaces. A more severe infestation might even present a distinctive, musty odor, reminiscent of a damp cloth.
You may also be wondering how to tell if bedbugs have bitten you. One of the most unmistakable signs of an infestation is the appearance of small, itchy welts on the skin, often arranged in lines, clusters, or zigzags and without a red center. Areas where bedbug bites are often found include the face, neck, arms, hands, legs, or any other part of the body exposed while sleeping.
Tips for Prevention of Bed Bugs
Preventing bedbug infestations is much easier than getting rid of them. When traveling, inspect hotel mattresses and furniture before you unpack. Place luggage on racks or hard surfaces, not on beds or floors. After you return home, wash and dry your clothes on high heat. Regularly vacuum and check your home, especially after hosting guests or buying used furniture. A tidy, clutter-free space also reduces bedbug hiding spots, facilitating early detection and treatment.
Getting Rid of Bedbugs
If you have bedbugs in your apartment, condo, home or place of business, the best way to get rid of them is to invest in fumigation, residential pest control or commercial pest control services. Only trained professionals are capable of handling the treatments required to properly fight back against bedbugs, especially for business owners dealing with large-scale issues that require fumigation.
Effective Bedbug Control Solutions
Having an infestation of bedbugs in your home or place of business can feel hard to overcome, but with some professional help, it can be done. With over 50 years of experience, Hulett Environmental Services is a trusted source for pest control services in south Florida. Our friendly team of technicians is ready to deliver effective bedbug control services in Florida and treatments for other common pests to drive your problem out in a timely manner.
Want to get the ball rolling on establishing a pest-free home? Inquire about a free inspection or give us a call with questions about Florida bedbug control today!
Bed Bugs Gallery
