Bed Bugs: What They Lack In Size, They Make Up In Speed. And They Can Really Go The Distance.

Posted on October 14, 2010

Nocturnal & feed at night–“shy” behavior during day

Feed only on blood & humans are the principle source

Period required for blood meal is 3-15 minutes

Bedbugs can take up to 6x their body weight in blood

Typically fast moving & found near host

Cements eggs into cracks & crevices. Prefers paper & wood vs concrete. Egg shells remain on substrate

Stink glands produce & leave odor

Can go without feeding for 80-140 days. Older stages can last longer than younger ones

Adults have survived without a blood meal for as long as 550 days!