The Life Style of the Bed Bug
Bed bugs are oval shaped, about a quarter of an inch in length and about the same width. They are very flat and can slide into very narrow cracks, seams and under bindings in bedding and furniture. They grow from eggs that hatch in about seven days, through five development stages we call nymphs, to the adult bed bug. All stages of the life cycle except the egg stage feed on human blood. Each life stage requires a blood feeding before developing to the next stage. A rite of passage.
Under ideal conditions the development of bed bugs goes from egg to adult in about 45 to 60 days. Under ideal conditions of room temperature and normal feeding, they generally live just several months. It is not uncommon for them to be able to survive for up to a year or longer, even without a blood meal.
Females can lay five to seven eggs per day and about 500 in a lifetime.
Bed bugs usually feed at night when people are asleep because the hosts are unaware that they are being fed upon. As bed bugs feed, they inject a salivary secretion into the wound to prevent coagulation. This fluid often causes the skin to itch and become swollen. Scratching causes sores,which may become infected. Bed bugs are not known to transmit any human pathogens but can cause emotional distress to those affected.
If you think you may have bed bugs, call Senske Pest Control today at (877) 944-4007 or click to Request an Estimate. There are many control strategies available, and you need a professional to help you find the correct solution.
