Bed bugs are small, flat, oval-shaped insects that feed exclusively on blood. After nearly disappearing for decades, they have made a major comeback and are now one of the fastest-growing pest problems in the United States. They are expert hitchhikers — traveling in luggage, clothing, used furniture, and bedding. A bed bug problem does not indicate uncleanliness; they can be found in the finest hotels and homes.
Bed Bug Facts
- Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed — 4–5mm long, reddish-brown, and flat when unfed
- They hide in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, and nearby furniture during the day
- Bed bugs are nocturnal and typically feed while people are asleep
- A single female can lay 200–500 eggs in her lifetime
- They can survive without a blood meal for several months under the right conditions
Recognizing Bites
Bed bug bites appear as small, red, itchy welts — often in a line or cluster on exposed skin (arms, neck, face). They are frequently mistaken for mosquito or flea bites. Other signs of infestation include rusty or reddish stains on mattress seams, tiny dark spots (excrement), shed skins, and a musty odor in heavily infested rooms.
How We Control Bed Bugs
Effective bed bug elimination requires a thorough inspection followed by targeted chemical treatment of all harborage areas. Bakersfield Pest Control provides detailed pre-treatment preparation instructions to maximize effectiveness. Follow-up visits are typically required to address any newly hatched bugs. Call us to schedule an inspection at the first sign of an infestation.
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