If bed bug identification is not something you already know, it is definitely something you should learn. Identification is the first step in avoiding infestation. Additionally, knowing their signs is part of the identification process. Once you can identify the pest and its signs, you can quickly discover a small infestation or even a single bug. Four Seasons is here to help you learn how to identify bed bugs.
Learning How to Identify Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are shaped similar to an apple seed and are dorso-ventrally flattened. Adults are 1/4 inch long and reddish-brown to mahogany in color. Nymph stages range from translucent in the newly hatched stage to a barely visible yellowish-red in the second instar. Newly hatched bed bugs are as small as 1mm in length. By the 4th instar, they have begun to take on the adult colors and are more easily seen.
Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to find and can quickly get out of hand if not properly addressed. However, if there is any suspicion of bed bugs, an inspection can reveal the evidence they leave behind on bedding, furniture, walls, and more. Becoming acquainted with a few vital educational tips to help identify bed bugs before they get out of control is beneficial.
Firstly, knowing what to look for can help isolate an infestation; familiarize yourself with the insect and its characteristics. Secondly, learn the tale-tell signs of bed bugs. Thirdly, if you discover bed bugs, call the pros at Four Seasons and order our A.C.T. Bed Bug Program.
Among the signs you might find during an inspection are:
- Fecal deposits. These are digested dried blood spots that the bed bug excretes after feeding. These spots will be found anywhere bed bugs are present and feeding. The more spots present, the bigger the infestation is.
- Bed bug eggs. These are tiny, oval-shaped, and white to off-white. They can be found in cracks and crevices or attached to furniture and belongings’ surfaces.
- Live bed bugs. When inspecting, finding any or all stages of bed bugs is possible.
- Shed exoskeletons. Bed bugs shed their exoskeleton each time they molt, leaving behind a pale-colored, bed bug-shaped “skin.”
Many people confuse carpet beetle larvae and their shed exoskeletons with bed bugs. Even some poorly trained pest control technicians will confuse them. It is best to hire a reputable and qualified pest control company to perform bed bug identification if you are unsure if you have bed bugs.
Where Do Bed Bugs Hide?
Bed bugs will hide just about anywhere! They are well known for their ability to go undetected until infestations are well established. Among their favored hiding places are:
- Box springs
- Headboards
- Footboards
- Folds and seams of mattresses
- Cracks and crevices in walls and furniture
- Folds of upholstered furniture
- Picture frames and other wall décor
- Luggage
- Within five feet of anywhere a human regularly sleeps
Inspecting these key locations can help detect infestations early on. In turn, this can reduce the likelihood of large infestations. If you or someone in your household travel regularly or have overnight guests, it is wise to learn and employ inspections in these critical areas. Additionally, you can contact us for information on our Platinum Pest Prevention Plan, designed to reduce the likelihood of bed bug infestations.
It’s good to have Four Seasons on your side!
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