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Bed bugs have been pestering mankind since time began. They are awful little pests that tend to make homes and businesses suffer from their presence. Being nearly eradicated out of the United States after WWII, they were only known for the small reference in children’s rhymes.
But in recent decades bed bugs are making a comeback, and until you face an infestation, you may know little about them. With that in mind, we at The Bed Bug Inspectors have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions in an effort to help you better understand the nocturnal blood suckers coming to perform their criminal mischief.
Bed Bug Rockland County NY FAQs
Q: What are bed bugs & what do they look like?
Adult bed bug
A: Bed bugs, formally belonging to the Cimicidae are tiny; when full grown they are no bigger than an apple seed. They are brown or reddish brown after feeding and flat. When engorged after a feast, they are more oval. Bed bugs are nocturnal insects that feed on warm-blooded hosts. They favor human blood. Bed bugs can easily adapt to their surroundings and environment and are found nearly everywhere in the world. Feeding on humans, they are generally more populated in inhabited areas.
Q: Where do bed bugs come from?
A: Bed bugs can come from nearly anywhere. Common infestations occur through contact with infested furniture in hotels, motels, and other lodging establishments. Bed bugs are often passed on from second hand clothing or furniture. Apartment complexes often have bedbugs because they can travel from apartment to apartment easily.
Q: What are bed bugs feeding habits?
A: Feeding primarily on humans, bed bugs inject two hollow tubes into the skin. With the first tube, the bed bug injects an anti-coagulant anesthetic to keep the blood flowing and with the other tube it sucks your blood. A bed bug usually only feeds for approximately five minutes before it returns to its safe place. Additionally, being nocturnal, they start appearing at dusk. Bed bugs can survive for up to eighteen months without feeding even though they seek blood every five to ten days.
Q: Are bed bug bites a health concern?
Man with bed bug bites in his back
A: The initial bed bug bite is not noticeable, but might manifest itself minutes or hours later. The bite usually appears to be a flat welt or a raised, red bump that is very itchy in most cases. The good news is that bed bug bites are not threatening, mostly an itchy annoyance. In some cases, the bed bug’s bite can cause skin irritation, rashes, or an allergic reaction from the first tube’s injection.
Q: Is here anything I can do to find relief from the itching?
A: Anti-itch cream is frequently effective.
Q: What are the signs I have a bed bug infestation?
A: Bed bug signs are; pungent, musky odors, small red blood stains on the sheets, rusty colored spots (fecal matter), bed bug bites, shed bed bug skin, or the bed bugs themselves.
Q: Where are bed bugs hiding in my house?
Bed Bug Infestation in the wall
A: Start by checking your bed, mattress itself and the corners of bed nets and seams, bed bug frames, head boards, bedding, and box spring. Bed bugs will also hide in surrounding furniture, behind peeling paint and wooden floorboards. In most cases bed bugs are in small, concentrated areas within 10-20 feet of where you sleep.
Q: What do I need to know if I have bed bugs?
A: If you suspect bed bugs in your room, avoid bringing anything in the contaminated room as the bed bugs can easily attach themselves to other objects. Do not to start sleeping in a different bed, sofa or with another family member or friend, as it makes it possible for the bed bugs to follow you to the new location and spread out their numbers into the next room. Contact professional help.
The Bed Bugs Inspectors hopes this frequently asked questions compilation answered your question. If not feel free to contact our friendly office to answer your questions, and if you suspect bed bugs call us for premium bed bug services.
Learn with The Bed Bug Inspectors
- When Do Bed Bugs Come Out?
- Bed Bug Feces: How Harmful Is It?
- Bed Bug Guide: Steps to Take If You Suspect a Bed Bug Infestation
- Bed Bugs Symptoms
- Where Do Bed Bugs Come From?
- 5 Types Of Bed Bugs And How To Identify Them
- What Are Some Bugs That Look Like Bed Bugs?
- How Long Can Bed Bugs Live
- How Do Bed Bugs Spread?
- The Bed Bug Life Cycle
