Bed Bugs

What do bed bugs look like?

Bed bugs go through different stages in their life cycle: eggs, nymphs, and adults, each with distinct visual characteristics.

Eggs: Bed bug eggs are tiny, about the size of a pinhead, and are white or translucent. They are often laid in cracks, crevices, or hidden spots near where bed bugs are likely to feed, such as on bed frames or furniture.

Nymphs: Nymphs are oval, flat, and transparent. Young nymphs that have recently fed will appear red. As bed bugs mature, their color changes from white to tan and eventually to a rusty brown. However, after a recent blood meal, a redder appearance is noticeable.

‍Adults: Adult bed bugs are about 1/5 of an inch long. They may appear more red or black depending on when they last fed. The black coloration is from fecal matter produced after the bed bug digests blood.

How long do bed bugs live?

The lifespan of a bed bug depends on environmental conditions. Most bed bugs live for about four months, but in favorable conditions, they can survive up to twelve months. Bed bugs thrive in environments with food (blood), warmth, few predators, and protected spaces with no pest control materials.
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What time of year is the worst for bed bugs?

Bed bugs don’t have a specific "season" since they are indoor pests. However, certain activities can increase the likelihood of an infestation, such as traveling, hosting guests, or college-age kids returning home for the holidays. Bed bugs are hitchhikers, spreading when humans unknowingly transport them.
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How do bed bugs feed on humans?

Bed bugs feed by piercing the skin with specialized mouthparts and drawing blood, much like mosquitoes. However, unlike mosquitoes, bed bugs can’t fly. They crawl onto a person via bedspreads, clothing, pillowcases, and other fabrics. Bed bugs typically feed three times per night, with each feeding session lasting 5 to 10 minutes.
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Can bed bugs cause health problems?

Yes, but not in the way you might expect. While pests like mosquitoes and ticks can spread diseases, bed bugs have not been found to transmit diseases to humans. However, they can cause secondary skin infections from itching and scratching. Bed bug problems can also lead to insomnia, stress, and anxiety. 
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How did I get bed bugs?

Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers. They can travel from place to place by latching onto luggage, backpacks, or used furniture. They may also hitch a ride on clothing or items you or someone else brings into your home.
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What are the signs of bed bugs?

Here are the most common signs that you might have a bed bug infestation:

• Bed bug bites: One of the most noticeable signs of a bed bug problem is waking up with itchy, red bites on your skin. These bites typically appear in a line or cluster, often on exposed areas like the arms, neck, or face. Bed bugs tend to bite at night while you’re sleeping.
• Blood stains on bedding: After feeding, bed bugs sometimes leave behind small blood stains on your sheets, pillowcases, or pajamas. These stains may appear as tiny red spots.
• Fecal spots: Bed bugs leave behind tiny, dark spots of feces, a telltale sign of an infestation. These may appear on your sheets, mattress seams, or other places where bed bugs like to hide.
• Shed skins: As bed bugs grow, they molt and shed their skins. You might find these pale, empty skins where bed bugs hide, like along the edges of mattresses or cracks and crevices in furniture.
• Live bed bugs: The most obvious sign is seeing the bed bugs themselves. Bed bugs are nocturnal, so you’re more likely to spot them at night or early morning. They often hide in cracks and crevices around the bed frame, mattress seams, or nearby furniture.
• Bed bug eggs: Bed bug eggs are tiny, about the size of a pinhead, and are usually laid in cracks or crevices near where bed bugs hide. If you find small, pearly white eggs or empty eggshells, this is a strong sign that bed bugs are nesting nearby.
• Musty odor: In severe infestations, bed bugs may emit a musty or sweet odor, similar to a moldy or damp smell. This is caused by pheromones released by the bed bugs, especially when they are disturbed.
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Do bed bugs only live in beds?

No, bed bugs can be found anywhere around your home, although they prefer to stay close to their food source. In addition to beds, common hiding spots include:

• Couches
• Living room chairs
• Office chairs
• Piano benches
• Under carpets
• Inside wall outlets
• Behind baseboards
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How do bed bugs hide?

Bed bugs prefer tight, dark spaces. They can hide in cracks and crevices in furniture, electronics, luggage, bags, and other items. You may not see them even if you open a piece of luggage or furniture, as they are experts at hiding.
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Can bed bugs spread from one room to another?

Yes, bed bugs can spread from one room to another. As they search for food, they often crawl along walls, baseboards, or through cracks in the structure. Additionally, bed bugs can travel through openings like electrical outlets, vents, or pipes. If left untreated, an infestation can quickly spread to other areas, making early detection and treatment crucial.
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What is the best way to eliminate bed bugs?

Bed bugs are resilient, and DIY methods often fail. The best way to resolve bed bug infestations is by working with a pest control company specializing in bed bug treatments. At Big Time Pest Control, we offer effective bed bug control in Sacramento, Redding, and Northern California and are ready to help you exterminate these biting pests! Contact us today for assistance. 
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How can I prevent a bed bug infestation?

While it’s impossible to guarantee you won’t get bed bugs completely, there are proactive steps you can take to prevent an infestation:

• Always inspect beds and furniture when staying away from home.
• Store laundry in sealed plastic bags when traveling.
• Launder all items when returning from a trip.
• Teach your children to recognize bed bug signs when staying elsewhere.
• Inspect secondhand furniture and items before bringing them into your home.

You can also opt for ongoing pest control services, which include regular inspections and treatments if needed. If you’re concerned about bed bugs, contact us today for more information.