Identification

Bedbugs are gray to reddish-brown in color, are oval and flat, and are approximately 1/16" to 3/16" (1 to 5 mm) in size. Bedbugs will be closely associated with the bed and surrounding objects such as headboards and end tables. The bat bug is similar in appearance to the bedbug, but has a heavier amount of setae on the pronotum and differs greatly in preferred habitat. The location where the insects are found can help distinguish between them. Bat bugs feed on bats and will originate in attics and wall voids where bats are roosting. Insects found in the middle of the floor, especially during the day, with no specimens found around the bed may indicate a bat bug infestation with entry into the living space via gaps around ceiling lights and other fixtures. Once the type of insect has been determined the appropriate control measures can be implemented.

Bedbug Behavior

Bedbugs harbor in hidden cracks and crevices during the day and emerge at night to take a blood meal from unsuspecting hosts. They are often associated with the sleeping quarters of an infested location as this offers a close proximity to the host. However, bedbugs can travel 10 to 100 feet for a blood meal, and will disperse to more remote areas as the infestation grows.

Bedbug Control

A visual inspection of the bed mattress, headboard and linens need to be performed inspecting typical focal areas of infestation.

Immediate action should be taken when bloodspots or actual bedbugs are present.

A systematic approach must be taken to verify all existing and potential bedbug harborage sites are identified and that their treatment is thorough enough to achieve control.

For more information on treating this problem, contact Kitsap Pest Control.