What does a pregnant bed bug look like? - briefly
Gravid female bed bugs are noticeably larger than unfed adults, with a distended, whitish abdomen that often appears translucent. The body is rounded and the abdomen may show a faint, orange‑tinged mass of developing eggs.
What does a pregnant bed bug look like? - in detail
A gravid bed bug can be distinguished from a non‑reproductive individual by several observable features.
The adult insect measures approximately 5–7 mm in length when not engorged. During the reproductive phase the abdomen expands, increasing overall length to about 8–10 mm. The body retains the characteristic oval shape, but the posterior segment becomes noticeably rounded and bulges outward.
Coloration remains a muted reddish‑brown on the dorsal surface, yet the expanded abdomen often appears lighter due to the thinness of the cuticle over the developing eggs. The ventral side may show a pale, almost translucent area where the eggs are visible through the cuticle.
Key visual indicators include:
- A markedly swollen abdomen occupying most of the insect’s rear half.
- A smooth, glossy surface on the expanded segment, lacking the typical fine hairs seen on a lean adult.
- Visible ovoid structures within the abdomen, each representing an egg; these appear as faint, whiteish specks when the cuticle is illuminated.
- Slightly increased body mass, causing the insect to sit lower in crevices and to press more firmly against fabrics.
Behavioral observations support identification. Gravid individuals often remain close to preferred hiding spots, such as mattress seams or furniture cracks, and may exhibit reduced mobility after a blood meal, conserving energy for egg development.
Collectively, these morphological and behavioral traits provide a reliable basis for recognizing a pregnant bed bug in field or laboratory settings.