Bed Bug Facts

What are bed bugs? 

Bedbugs are small parasitic insects that feed on blood. Adults can grow up to 5x3 mm in size; nymphs (immature bugs) are smaller. They are wingless, six-legged pests with two antennae, usually brownish red in colour. After feeding, their bodies fill with bright red blood which gradually darkens over the next day or two. 

How long do bed bugs live?

Bedbugs develop into adulthood in approximately five weeks; they live four to six months, although some sources report possible lifespans of up to 18 months.

What attracts bed bugs?

• People

  • Bedbugs are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide.

• Darkness

  • While they do prefer darkness and are most active at night (particularly just before sunrise), keeping the lights on will not prevent them from coming out or living in a room. 

• Tiny Spaces

  • They like to hide in cracks and crevices: the seams of bedding and mattresses, bed joints, under baseboards and behind electrical outlet covers.

• Their favourite substances are wood and cardboard.

Bed Bug Myths:

• They’re impossible to get rid of.

• They’re invisible.

• The bites look the same on everyone.

• Light keeps them away.

• Freezing them will kill them.

• They’re only in dirty places; they are uncommon.