For centuries, bed bugs have been lurking in cracks and crevices, searching for their next meal of human blood. While these pests have been wreaking havoc on unsuspecting victims throughout history, their prevalence is currently at an all-time high. In fact, 99.6% of all pest control companies in the U.S. treat bed bugs at least once a year in common places like apartments and condominiums, single-family homes, and hotels or motels.

By knowing how to identify bedbugs and taking the necessary precautions to get rid of bed bugs, you can defend you and your family from falling victim to these pesky nuisances.

Bed bugs can be identified by their flat, round shape and reddish-brown coloring. Adult bed bugs are typically the size of an appleseed and typically feed on human blood by inserting a long, sharp proboscis into the sleeping victim’s skin. Because these wingless critters can’t jump or fly, they are incredibly skilled at scurrying into seams and folds in an effort to stay hidden. And because they can go up to five months without food, they can easily remain in luggage, bags, and clothes until released. They are also known to seek shelter in places like wallpaper, inside bedding, box springs, couches, and other furniture.

Unfortunately, bedbug infestations can be difficult to identify until the problem has reached sizable proportions. Females lay several hundred eggs over the course of just a few months and, after these eggs hatch, the nymphs go through five stages of skin shedding, or molt, before reaching adulthood. Before each molt, the nymph requires a sizable feast of human blood. Furthermore, once bed bugs have identified a reliable host, chances are they won’t go far.

Because bedbugs target sleeping humans, they will generally centralize in a particular area in mattresses and other areas of the sleeping quarters. To check for an infestation, thoroughly search behind walls, wallpaper, upholstered furniture, electrical outlets, under carpeting, and around bed frames. Any area that’s dark, isolated, and offers protection should be closely examined. In the event you identify an infestation, call Arete Pest Control.

At Arete Pest Control, we specialize in getting rid of bed bugs and are here to solve all your bed bug problems. With years of experience in pest control services, our trained technicians have the tools, resources, and knowledge needed to provide a lasting solution for bed bug infestations. As your local bed bug exterminator, you can rely on us to keep your home pest-free and your family safe from nasty critters. Call us today at 770-954-8770 for a free estimate of our bed bug extermination services.