Bed Bugs

Bed Bugs in Vermont

Bed bugs are nocturnal, parasitic insects that feed on blood from humans and other mammals. When fully grown, these tiny pests usually measure just 6mm in size, making them very difficult to detect. Bed bugs are drawn to body heat and carbon dioxide, which is how they find their hosts. Since they feed at night, bed bugs search for hosts that are sleeping, which is how they earned their nickname. While these pests are usually found near sleeping areas, they can spread in a variety of public places ranging from public transportation to shopping centers. 

Bed Bug Habitat

Bed bugs are found in all 50 states and can survive in a variety of environments, but they prefer areas that are close to human activity or sleeping areas. Mattresses, box springs, and headboards are prime real estate for these pests, providing easy access to their nightly blood meals. However, they’re not limited to beds; they can infest cracks in walls, electrical outlets, furniture seams, and even behind wallpaper. Their elusive nature makes them challenging to spot, as they emerge from their hiding places primarily at night, making it difficult to detect an infestation until it’s well established. 

Bed Bug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

While bed bugs don’t transmit diseases directly, their presence can lead to a range of issues. Their bites, often mistaken for mosquito or flea bites, can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, resulting in itching, redness, and discomfort. Prolonged infestations may lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and stress due to the fear of being bitten during sleep. Moreover, the psychological toll of dealing with an infestation can be significant, impacting mental well-being and causing feelings of embarrassment or isolation. 

DIY bed bug removal is very challenging and often just exacerbates the problem by spreading the infestation to other areas of the home. If you think you have bed bugs, it’s best to contact a licensed exterminator for help.