Bed Bugs

What Is A Bed Bug?

Bed bugs are tiny insects that feed on the blood of mammals. Unfortunately, their favorite source of food is humans. Bed bugs were once very seldom heard of; however, they are making a strong comeback in the United States and can be found in every state. Adult bed bugs are oval-shaped and are about the same size as an apple seed. They are very flat and tend to be reddish-brown in color. Bed bugs reproduce very quickly, so the earlier you catch the infestation, the more successful the treatments tend to be.

Things You Should Know:

• Bed bug bites are often found on arms, legs, necks, and other exposed areas.
• Prior to eating, bed bugs are flat and brown. After a meal, their bodies swell and turn red.
• Bed bugs hide in beds, behind baseboards, in furniture crevices, and other small cracks and crevices.
• It is common to find bed bugs in homes, hotels, airplanes... any place people congregate!

Why Are They In My House?

While there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about bed bugs and why they infest our homes, the primary reason why bed bugs are in your house is because they are searching for food. Most likely, they got there by hitching a ride from somewhere else; bed bugs are very adept hitchhikers. You can pick them up almost anywhere: the bus station, a hotel, a taxi cab, an airplane, or even a relative’s house.

What's The Deal With Bed Bug Bites?

Bed bugs are not known to carry or transmit diseases; however, they often leave a red, itchy welt after feeding. These welts can be quite irritating and may become infected. Once they become infected, medical attention is required.

What Does It Take To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are nearly impossible to exterminate with do-it-yourself methods or over-the-counter products. Their small size and flat shape make them extremely good at hiding. They can hide under the sheets of your bed, in the folds of mattresses, inside furniture cushions, and even behind baseboards, outlet covers, and picture frames.

The professionals at Parkway Pest Services are trained in the latest and most effective methods of bed bug extermination. We also offer canine bed bug inspections; these dogs are trained much like bomb detection and drug-sniffing dogs and are up to 99% accurate in detecting the presence of adult bed bugs, nymphs, and eggs. For bed bug extermination services near you, get in touch with our experts today!