Bed bugs are small, reddish insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals at night. Most people have heard about them, but very few know what to look for, like the first sign of an infestation. Their small size and their ability to hide make them a challenge to get rid of.
Even though they are small, they can significantly affect your home and your life. If you believe that you have bed bugs in your home, you’re not alone. They are one of the most common household pests, and their numbers are on the rise. Here are some early signs that you may have bed bugs in your home.
Fecal Spots
If you wake up with fecal spots on your pillow, bed bugs may be blamed. The feces of bed bugs will not leave any trace on the mattress or the sheets that cover it. They have been known to leave fecal spots between the mattress and box spring, under the box spring, and on other furniture. They also feed on skin flakes, which means that they can sometimes be found feeding on your skin. In some cases, they will provide where there are no visible signs of them or their eggs.
Bites
Bed bugs bite humans and animals. The bites of bed bugs are often not painful, but they can be itchy and irritating. These bites are often mistaken for mosquito bites or flea bites. Bed bugs have been known to bite in the cracks of the mattress, behind the headboard, and anywhere else they can find a good spot to hide. They will also feed on you while you sleep. Pest control companies often use heat to get rid of infestations. If you have bed bugs, the heat will kill them, but it will also kill you, so take precautions.
Eggs
Bed bug eggs are tiny and can be challenging to find. They look like small grains of rice. The eggs are often found in the seams of mattresses, box springs, upholstered furniture, and even behind wallpaper. They will hatch in about a week and begin feeding on humans at night. Bed bugs can also lay eggs in other beds, couches, carpets, clothing, bedding, luggage, etc. If you find them in these places, they may have already begun to feed on humans.
Molt Skin
Bed bugs molt or shed the skin that covers them. Their old skin will fall off and look like a patch of dry blood. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if you have bed bugs because the old skin looks like normal dead skin.
Bloodstains
If you find blood spots on your sheets or comforters after a night of sleeping, you may have bed bugs. The defects could also be caused by flea bites or even the bites of a mosquito. The pest extermination has to be done cautiously. To avoid any accidents, employees should wear protective suits and masks.
Musty Smell
You might notice a musty smell in your home. Bed bugs can cause this smell because they leave behind their waste products, including feces and body fluids. The scent of bed bugs is not as strong as that of a skunk, but it can still be detected.
Changes in Pet Behavior
Changes in your pet’s behavior are one of the most common signs that you have bed bugs. Your pet may be acting differently than they usually do. When they are working this way, they are trying to protect themselves from the bites of these insects.
Live or Dead Bugs
The first sign of bed bugs is the presence of live bed bugs. These bugs can be found in the seams and crevices of your mattress. If you have purchased a new mattress, check it for the presence of these insects before you bring it home.
Bed bugs are a serious problem, and they can be tough to get rid of. When you find any signs of bed bugs in your home, look for a professional pest control company to help you get rid of these pests.
In need of pest control services? Call Thousand Oaks Pest Control today!
