Bed Bug

Actual Size: Less than 6 mm. Adults are the size of an apple seed.

Characteristics: Oval, flat and mahogany brown to red-brown.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: No

Habitat: Single family homes, apartments, hotels, hospitals, schools and college campuses, office buildings, retail stores, movie theaters and even public transportation.

Habits: 

  • Their bites are painless but may result in red, itchy marks
  • Feeds exclusively on the blood of humans and mammals
  • When crushed, gives off a musty, sweet odor from their scent glands

Bed Bugs in Puerto Rico

Bed bugs are one of the most common pest problems. Found throughout the nation, bed bugs are nocturnal insects that feed exclusively on blood. Humans serve as their primary host, but they also feed on birds and mammals. Bed bugs are secretive and remain well hidden in cracks and crevices located in places where they are not likely to be disturbed. Bed bugs typically feed at night while their host lay fast asleep, and they can live for a year or longer without a blood meal. Their bite is essentially painless, so they are rarely detected at the time of feeding activity. These bites can result in red, itchy welts but aren’t necessarily dangerous for our health.

Bed Bug Habitat

Bed bugs live in groups and inhabit areas where humans sleep or rest for extended periods of time. Bed bugs are usually transported, unknowingly, from place to place as people travel. They conceal themselves in the seams and folds of luggage, overnight bags, bedding, furniture and anywhere they can hide. Bed bugs can be found in homes, hotels, apartment buildings, schools, medical facilities and other areas frequented by the public. These pests favor cracks, crevices or seams in headboards, mattresses, luggage, backpacks and upholstered furniture. They can also be found in less likely areas such as power outlets. Once inside, they can easier move from one room to the next.

Bed Bug Behaviors, Threats or Dangers

Bed bugs do not spread disease and are not considered dangerous; however, an allergic reaction to several bites may need medical attention.The first sign of a bed bug infestation is typically bites on the skin or the appearance of small brownish dots on the bed. Bed bugs gain access to people through used furniture and bedding, luggage or other objects that move from place to place, or through pipes shared by neighboring apartments or hotel rooms. Bed bug bites may be undetected on people who have been bitten. Welt-like swelling in a straight line on the skin of the bite victim may occur.

Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to get rid of without the help of a professional. Always contact your licensed bed bug removal specialists for help with an infestation.