| Scientific name | Cimex lectularius |
|---|---|
| Group | True Bugs |
| Size | 4–7 mm (up to about 0.28 in) |
| Colors | Brown and Red |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Bedroom or bed |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | Yes |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Can bite or sting |
How to identify it
The bed bug is a small member of the true bugs group. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back. Check for these three features:
- Flat, oval, reddish-brown body without wings
- Rust-colored stains or tiny black dots on mattress seams
- Itchy bites, often in lines or clusters
About this bug
A flat, oval, apple-seed-sized insect that hides in mattress seams, bed frames and furniture and feeds on human blood at night. Infestations spread through luggage, used furniture and shared walls.
You'll usually find bed bugs in bedrooms and beds. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
Bed bug bites itch and cause stress and sleep loss, but bed bugs are not known to spread disease.
Our rating: Can bite or sting, meaning it can bite or sting, usually with mild, local effects.
When you'll see bed bugs
Bed Bugs are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: bedroom or bed.
About true bugs
The bed bug is one of the true bugs. True bugs have piercing, straw-like mouthparts used to suck plant sap or, in a few species, blood. They develop through gradual metamorphosis: nymphs look like small, wingless adults and molt several times as they grow. Many release strong odors from scent glands when threatened.
Because nymphs look like adults, you'll often see mixed sizes of the same bug together, which is a good sign that a population is breeding nearby.
What to do about it
- Inspect mattress seams, headboards and furniture joints with a flashlight
- Wash and dry bedding on high heat for at least 30 minutes
- Hire a professional for heat or chemical treatment, since DIY rarely eliminates them
Read the full guide: how to get rid of bed bugs.
Bugs that look similar
Group: Bed Bug belongs to true bugs, while varied carpet beetle belongs to beetles. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back.
Size: Kissing Bugs are larger, reaching 25 mm, while bed bugs top out around 7 mm.
Group: Bed Bug belongs to true bugs, while booklouse belongs to centipedes, millipedes & crawlers. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back.
Group: Bed Bug belongs to true bugs, while cat flea belongs to other insects. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back.
Group: Bed Bug belongs to true bugs, while head louse belongs to other insects. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back.
Frequently asked questions
What does a bed bug look like?
Flat, oval, reddish-brown body without wings. Adults measure 4–7 mm (up to about 0.28 in).
Does the bed bug bite or sting?
It can bite. It does not sting. Bed bug bites itch and cause stress and sleep loss, but bed bugs are not known to spread disease.
Where do bed bugs live?
Bed Bugs live in bedrooms and beds.
When are bed bugs most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.