In recent decades bed bugs have become a real problem. They were nearly eradicated after WWII and was something only really heard of in children’s rhymes. But thanks to convenient worldwide traveling, bed bugs are creeping up in people’s homes and businesses across the United States including Texas. Though bed bugs haven’t been linked to transmitting any known diseases, their presence can be a real nuisance. With that in mind, we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to share some facts about bed bugs to give you a better understanding on this blood sucking pest.
What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?
Bed bugs are considerably small, at adulthood they only measure 0.18 inches, or roughly the size of an apple seed. They are flat and brown, except just after their blood feast they will be a reddish color and engorged. Bed bugs are nocturnal, feeding on your blood while you slumber. During the day they seek refuge and hide. After they have mated the females will lay her eggs. During her lifespan she will lay anywhere between 200 and 250 eggs. After 6-10 days her eggs will hatch, and nymphs will emerge. Bed bugs will shed their exoskeletons five times before reaching adulthood, requiring a blood meal before each transition. If a host is convenient, bed bugs will eat at least once a day. If an adult bed bug survives, their lifespan will end just under a year.
Where Do Bed Bugs Hide During the Day?
Being that bed bugs are so tiny, they will often go unnoticed until their numbers multiply and become populated enough to be noticeable. They usually keep to the bed area during the day; headboards, frames, mattresses and box springs. When their numbers expand, they spill out in the room, hiding behind baseboard, picture frames, and loose wallpaper, in outlets, furniture and anywhere else that offers them security. Continuing to grow, they will spread out throughout your home or business.
Early Signs of Bed Bugs
– Sheets and bedding are stained with dark, rusty spots, which are bed bug fecal matter, and blood stains. Also their skins from shedding might be present.
– Itchy, red welts that are in a row will be usually down your arms or your shoulders and back, but they will latch on anywhere.
If you believe you have a bed bug problem, calling professionals from A-Tex Pest Management is ideal. With proper training all bed bugs are discovered and properly exterminated.
Where Do Bed Bugs Come From?
Bed bugs are easily brought home from interacting in any public establishment where they are. Airplanes, trains, busses and other public transportation, medical facilities, offices, lodging, movie theaters, schools, and churches are just a few examples. Picking them up unknowingly can get your home infested. When visiting public places it is important to do a quick inspection, especially in lodging establishments.
Bed Bug Pest Inspections, Control & More in Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville, Cedar Park & Austin Texas
If you believe you have bed bugs infesting your home or business, it is important to get rid of them quickly and efficiently. A-Tex Pest Management has advanced training in detecting and exterminating bed bugs. Call us today to schedule your appointment.
