PEST STATES

Color: Unfed adults are mahogany; engorged bed bugs are red-brown. Nymphs are nearly colorless.

Legs: 6

Shape: Flat, broad oval when unfed; swollen and elongated when fed.

Size: Adults are 1/4 inch long. Nymphs range from 1.3 mm to 4-5 mm.

Antennae:Yes

QUICK OVERVIEW:

Bed Bugs are parasites that feed on blood and can cause extreme itching and sleepless nights. They damage furniture, curtains, beds and mattresses. Infestations can occur in the bedroom and spread rapidly to other parts of the house, putting you and your children at risk.A number of adverse health effects may result from bed bug bites, including skin rashes, psychological effects, and allergic symptoms.[7] They are not known to transmit any pathogens as disease vectors. Certain signs and symptoms suggest the presence of bed bugs; finding the insects confirms the diagnosis.Bed bugs (picture on the left) likely get their name from their habit of feeding on humans while they sleep in their beds.If you do identify bed bugs in your home, contact a pest professional promptly. They will be able to inspect your home, confirm the species and recommend a course of bed bug treatment.