The U.S. has long been plagued by bed bugs—tiny hitchhikers that invade thousands of properties. These vermin were thought to have been eradicated in 1939 thanks to the discovery of the insecticide DDT, but the bug-free period at homes and establishments didn’t last. Infestations returned with the emergence of a pesticide-resistant species in 2000. Since then, the bed bug problem has persisted, affecting 1 out of 5 property owners across different states.
In solving this issue, one needs to understand what bed bugs are, how they move, and where they thrive. You also need to know why bed bug control in Indiana and surrounding states can help prevent the infestation of these insects. Here are some of the most important things about these critters:
What Are Bed Bugs?
They are brownish, oval-shaped parasitic insects about the size of an apple seed. They feed on human or animal blood. Bed bugs have a life span of 6-12 months, and during such a short period, one female bug can lay about 200-500 eggs. These hatch in just 6-10 days.
How Fast Do Bed Bugs Travel?
On most surfaces, bed bugs move as fast as a running person, which is about 3-4 feet per minute. Their ability to crawl rapidly at a pretty steady pace makes it easy for them to travel from one area to another without being caught or seen.
Where Do They Hide?
Unlike ants and termites that live in colonies underground, bed bugs typically hide within cracks, crevices, and folds of furniture close to their hosts. These include mattresses, couches, and people’s personal items like clothing and luggage. They may also move to other areas of a house or building, staying out of human sight until it’s time to feed again.
Do Bed Bugs Only Bite at Night?
Bed bugs are notorious for attacking humans while they’re sleeping at night. But that doesn’t mean they’re only active after dark. When they get hungry, these insects come out during the daytime to search for a blood meal.
Are Bed Bug Bites Dangerous?
The health risk posed by bed bugs largely depends on their victim’s immune response to the bites. Some may not experience any symptoms other than skin irritation or small, red bumps in the area of the bite. Others can have allergic reactions that require medical attention. People hypersensitive to bites may develop severe reactions, including fever, difficulty breathing, or a swollen tongue.
How Will You Know If Your House Is Infested?
Aside from having visible signs of bites, seeing bed bugs on mattresses, sheets, clothes, and walls is a telltale sign of infestation. Also, check for tiny, rusty-colored blood excrements or musty odor on the surfaces. Schedule a professional bug removal in Michigan for a thorough inspection and bed bug pest control service.
Your Trusted Provider for Bug Removal in Michigan
Arrow Services, Inc. offers safe and viable solutions to a bed bug infestation in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana. Call us today for bed bug control in Indiana and surrounding states.
You may also reach us anytime to learn more about our pest control services. One of our trained and certified pest control specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.