The Bugs We Love to Hate: Interesting Facts About Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are one of the most disliked insects in the world. There is not one person that is excited about their existence - except for entomologists! Furthermore, an infestation can be ongoing if not handled correctly. While bed bugs tend to put fear in our minds and rashes on our skins, they are also fascinating creatures that deserve to be considered in the public's learning criterion. From their survival skills to their unusual diets, we bet that you didn't know all of these interesting facts about bed bugs.
They can ingest seven times their weight in blood
Bed bugs feast on human and animal blood. They have no interest in blood outside of a living organism, and blood is the only thing they eat. To witness the sheer amount of blood a bed bug can take in, you would need to squish it and be amazed by how much they can ingest at a given time. But, we suggest that you call a bed bug extermination company instead.
Their eggs are almost microscopic
Bed bugs have a gestation period of six to ten days. At that point, the adult female lays one to five eggs at a time. Unfortunately, the eggs are so tiny that they are never the first indicator of an infestation since they are hard to spot with the naked eye. When measured, the average bed bug egg is about the size of two grains of salt or a millimeter.
They can live without food for months
If we haven't terrified you enough, this fact is awe-inspiring. Without a host present, bed bugs can go without a meal for 20 to 400 days, depending on the climate and conditions. Imagine not eating for an entire year! As a human, it is simply impossible.
They don't spread diseases
Unlike many insects they are mistaken for, such as cockroaches or ticks, bed bugs aren't known to spread or transfer diseases. Instead, their bites can cause rashes and other skin irritations and have only been tied to infection if someone does not treat the bite or gets bacteria into it through scratching. Phew, that's a relief.
They have extreme mating habits
Traumatic insemination sounds as frightening as it is in reality. The male bug forcefully pierces the abdomen of the female and impregnates her. This fact does not present the best imagery! Yet, this form of insemination is common in some types of snails, spiders, and other critters.
They have a built-in anesthetic
The most frequently reported sign of a bed bug invasion is itchy bites or welts on the skin 24 to 48 hours after the bite. The reason the bite doesn't wake or startle the person under attack is the bed bug's saliva. With a built-in anesthetic, they can eat and run without the human or pet having the slightest clue.
They are very savvy hitchhikers
The majority of people believe that bed bugs are found in dirty motels or unsanitary living arrangements. On the contrary, bed bugs hitch rides from pretty much anywhere: public transportation, nature, hospitals, movie theaters, commercial buildings, and more. Therefore, it's essential not to feel dirty or unsanitary if you or someone you know has a bed bug infestation. They are pretty good at moving from one place to the next.
Hire a professional pest control company
We can extensively discuss the fascinating facts that make up these gnarly creatures, but bed bugs are indeed a nuisance to whomever they deem worthy of hosting. No one should deal with a bed bug infestation on their own. We hope that these facts help you better understand what bed bugs are capable of, but know that almost every licensed and certified pest control company has treated these critters in the last year. We're trained and ready to help!
Bed Bugs Arizona offers a free, in-home bed bug inspection and a one-year warranty on all bed bug services. No obligation. We specialize in apartment communities. Our fast, certified technicians provide the Pro-Treat Plus method of bed bug removal to Phoenix and surrounding cities in a 100-mile plus radius including Flagstaff, Globe, and Casa Grande. Veteran and senior discounts. Call now at (602) 962-8806.
