Bed Bugs in McAlpin
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed exclusively on the blood of humans and animals. These tiny insects, about the size of an apple seed, have flat, oval-shaped bodies that allow them to squeeze into cracks and crevices near their hosts. Since they can remain dormant for up to a year, many people don’t notice infestations until they wake up with red and itchy welts—usually located on exposed skin, such as the face, neck, legs, or arms. Signs include blood stains on sheets, dark spots of bed bug excrement, and a distinctive sweet, musty odor.
Bed Bug Habitat
Bed bugs are often associated with unhygienic places, but the truth is they can be found anywhere humans live or sleep. They thrive in warm, indoor environments close to their hosts, making beds, mattresses, and other furniture their primary habitats. Hotels, dormitories, and apartment buildings are common hotspots for bed bug outbreaks due to the high turnover of occupants and the ease with which bed bugs can travel in luggage and clothing. Getting rid of bed bugs can be notoriously difficult due to their ability to hide in small cracks and crevices, their resistance to many pesticides, and their rapid reproduction rates.
Bed Bug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
While bed bugs don’t spread diseases, they can be incredibly psychologically distressing to deal with. Imagine waking up to itchy red welts on your skin, knowing that these tiny creatures have been feeding on you while you sleep. The thought alone can lead to sleep disturbances and heightened anxiety. Scratching bed bug bites can also lead to secondary skin infections, which could be dangerous without proper care. If a bed bug infestation is suspected, it is recommended to contact a professional bed bug exterminator.