One out of every five Americans has either dealt with a bed bugs infestation in their home or know of someone who has. Despite the fact that bed bugs have become so common, there are still many misconceptions about bed bug behavior. Below, you will learn some surprising bed bugs facts.

1- Bed Bugs Can Live Anywhere

Most people associate bed bugs with dirty hotels but, the truth is, bed bugs can live almost anywhere. They can easily live in single-family homes, apartments, hospitals, college dorm rooms, office buildings, schools, buses, trains, movie theaters, retail stores and anywhere they can find humans. According to the 2011 “Bugs without Borders” study, 89 percent of pest professionals reported having treated bed bugs in single family homes.

2- Bed Bugs Don’t Just Live in the City

Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs don’t need to live in areas with large human populations. They are found in all 50 states, regardless of population size. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) “Bed Bugs in America” survey found that bed bugs are more common in densely populated cities, but are also likely to be found in rural areas, especially if the homeowner has been travelling.

3- Bed Bugs are Hardy

Not only can bed bugs go months between meals, but they can survive temperatures of nearly freezing to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of this resilience, bed bugs should not be treated with DIY methods. They are best treated by a pest professional who is familiar with their survival methods and has experience treating similar infestations.

4- Bed Bugs are Smart

Bed bugs haven’t survived this long without picking up a few survival tactics. They know to stay hidden during the daytime, hiding in mattress crevices, box springs, baseboards, behind electrical switch plates, in picture frames and even behind wallpaper. It is only the carbon dioxide that our bodies produce that lures them out of their hiding places.

5- Bed Bugs are Methodical

Bed bugs have a specific feeding pattern. This pattern is often jokingly referred to as “breakfast, lunch and dinner”, as they will bite several times and feed for 5 to 10 minutes before resting and feeding again. These bite marks are often found in clusters and are a telltale sign of a bed bug infestation.

6- Bed Bugs Make Great Anesthesiologists

Have you ever wondered why humans don’t wake up when bed bugs are feeding on them? This is due to components in bed bug saliva acting as an anesthetic and promoting increased blood flow at the bite site, making the feeding process quick and nearly painless.

After feeding, bed bugs will retreat to their hiding places for about 5-10 days, until it is time for them to feed again. During this time, they will mate and lay eggs.

If you suspect you have a bed bug infestation, don’t hesitate to call a professional. DIY methods do not work, and your infestation can continue to grow. Call the professionals at Dodson Pest Control for your free inspection today.