What do domestic bedbugs look like, where do they hide, and why do they appear? - briefly
Domestic bedbugs are flat, reddish‑brown insects about 4–5 mm long, with an oval shape and dark spots on their wings. They hide in mattress seams, bed frames, wall cracks, and similar crevices, appearing in homes when human blood is readily available—often after travel, clutter, or the introduction of infested second‑hand furniture.
What do domestic bedbugs look like, where do they hide, and why do they appear? - in detail
Domestic bed bugs are small, oval insects measuring 4–5 mm when fully grown. Their bodies are flat, reddish‑brown, and lack wings. After feeding, the abdomen expands and turns a deeper red. Nymphs resemble adults but are lighter in color and increase in size with each molt.
Typical refuges include:
- Mattress seams, box‑spring folds, and bed frames.
- Upholstered furniture, especially cushions and crevices.
- Wall cracks, baseboard gaps, and electrical outlet covers.
- Luggage, clothing, and personal items that have been in infested environments.
Infestations arise when bugs are introduced via travel, second‑hand furniture, or adjacent apartments. Favorable conditions—warm temperatures, access to human blood, and hidden harborage—support population growth. Repeated feeding cycles, molting, and egg laying amplify the problem, leading to visible bites and widespread contamination.