If you’re like most people, the thought of bed bugs makes your skin crawl. The less you think about them the better. Because most people don’t like to talk about bed bugs, let alone think about them invading their home, there are often questions about these pesky insects that go unanswered. In today’s post, the experts at Advanced K9 Bed Bug Seekers will share answers to some of the most frequently asked questions they receive from customers, and some of the information might be downright surprising. Read on to learn more and then call us at 720-251-2665 to schedule an appointment for bed bug detection!
Bed Bug FAQs
What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?
In egg form, bed bugs are very tiny — only about the size of two salt grains — and they are cloudy white in color. Nymphs and adults take on the typical bed bug appearance with a body that is flat, reddish-brown, and may be as large as four to five millimeters long. They are commonly confused with other pests, but a bed bug detection company will be able to efficiently determine whether you are dealing with bed bugs or a different pest.
Where Do They Hide?
Bed bugs like to hide in a wide variety of places in homes and commercial buildings, but they generally prefer to nest as close to their food source (read: you) as possible. Mattresses, box springs, and headboards are prime real estate for these troublesome pests, as humans tend to spend anywhere from six to eight hours a day in bed. Aside from beds, they also like to hide in curtain folds, in the joints of bedside tables, behind baseboards, and other tight spaces.
What Are The Signs Of Bed Bugs?
This is by far the most common question we are asked. Some of the most common signs of bed bugs include stains and smears on your bedding, bug bites from an unknown source, and a distinct odor that smells somewhat sweet and musky. If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to contact a reputable bed bug detection company as soon as possible to determine if you have an active infestation.
How Did They Get In My House?
Homes and commercial buildings of all shapes and sizes can fall prey to bed bug infestations, and it is a myth that bed bugs only move in on dirty or unsanitary dwellings. These little pests are expert hitchhikers, and if you have recently visited an infested location like a hotel or friend’s home, you can easily wind up bringing home unwanted travel companions. For more information on where bed bugs come from, check out our prior post on the topic.
What Do Bed Bugs Eat?
Much to the chagrin of homeowners and commercial property owners, bed bugs feed solely on the blood of their hosts. Because of the amount of carbon dioxide that we give off, humans are the primary food source for bed bugs, but that is not to say that they won’t feed on animals if their human host is not present. They don’t need to feed often either — even in undesirable conditions, bed bugs can survive up to a year without a meal!
Denver Bed Bug Detection
Need to speak with an expert about the signs of bed bugs, or do you have a question that is not listed above? Advanced K9 Bed Bug Seekers is happy to answer any questions you might have, and we’ll gladly schedule a bed bug detection appointment for you. Contact our team today!