As one of the most feared pests in recent years, most people are aware that bed bugs exist; however, they may not know that much about them other than that they make terrible houseguests. Your bed is likely one of the most vulnerable places in your home. Unfortunately, bed bugs can make their way to various pieces of furniture anywhere, meaning that both homeowners and business owners need to be cautious of them. But what exactly are bed bugs and what should you know about this persistent pest?
Bed Bugs, technically known as Cimex Lectularius, are very small, flat insects that thrive by feeding on the blood of both animals and humans while they are sleeping. In most cases, bed bugs will retain an almost copper-like, reddish-brown color and range between 1mm and 7mm in size. Unlike other pests that will quickly starve, bed bugs can go several months without a blood meal and are notoriously difficult to remove without the assistance of a professional pest control provider once they have become established.
Where Can You Find Bed Bugs?
It seems like bed bugs can be found nearly everywhere in the world these days from Oklahoma to Tokyo. No place is safe some the potential threat of bed bug infestation. Traditionally, bed bugs were seen primarily as a pest associated with developing countries but over time have become a rapid problem in many countries including the United States and the United Kingdom. These blood-sucking pests have also been found in places you wouldn’t expect, like five-star hotels and expensive resorts.
How Can You Get Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are great at two things that make them very easy to bring home; hitchhiking and hiding. Most of the time, bed bugs are transported through travel luggage where they will squeeze into tight spaces with their flat bodies and stay there for long periods without needing to feed. This means that even with a long flight home from another area, your bed bugs could still be waiting for you at the luggage claim.
How Do You Know if You Have a Bed Bug Infestation?
Most people learn that they have a bed bug problem when they begin finding unexplained bug bite marks on their body after sleeping. It is important to note, however, that some of these marks may take as long as 2 weeks before developing for some people so knowing the other signs of bed bug infestation will help diagnose the problem more quickly. This process often includes examining your mattress folds and sheets for exoskeletons, rust-colored blood spots or a musty odor around your furniture.
Pied Piper Services for Bed Bug Control
If you are finding signs of bed bugs around your home or business, it is important to utilize the services of a pest control company for early detection to rid your home of these elusive pests. Pied Piper Services has the equipment and knowledge needed to ensure your home returns to normal following a bed bug infestation. Give the experts at The Pied Piper a call to get started with effective bed bug control!