Bed bugs are among the most common pests in homes, be it Phoenix or beyond. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) released some worrisome statistics about this creepy crawlies, from the results of the 2015 Bugs without Borders Survey. We’re here to answer the questions you may have after the release of this survey.
- How Common are Bed Bugs?
It seems that the insects are quite at home in the modern environment as 99.6 percent of all professional pest exterminators have dealt with them in the past year. The number hasn’t changed from 2013, but is significantly higher than 15, 10, or 5 years ago. - Where are Bed Bugs Most Likely to be Found?
According to The National Pest Management Association’s Bugs Without Borders Survey, bed bugs are most likely to be found in condominiums and apartments at 95 percent. Apartments range in size, so just because one unit has bed bugs does not mean the rest do. - What Other Locations are Common for Bed Bugs?
Single-family homes (93 percent) and motels/hotels (75 percent) are the next common locations for bed bugs after apartments. In addition, beds bugs are also found in high numbers in places such as public transportation, nursing homes, schools, offices, college dormitories, and even hospitals. Essentially, where people can either give a home to bed bugs or allow them to travel from one place to another, they are popular. - Are Bed Bugs Seasonal?
Another characteristic that makes bed bugs among the most problematic of pests is that they are not seasonal. The survey reports, however, that their numbers apparently increase in the summer. Experts theorize that this is due in part to increased transportation, as people travel for vacation. They transport the pests unknowingly through these travels. - How do Bed Bugs Bite You?
The harm of these bugs is felt in their bites. WebMD describes the way they feed: by piercing skin and using an elongated beak to withdraw blood. The bites are painless at first, but turn into welts later on. If you don’t realize that you have an infestation of these particular bugs, you’d attribute the bites to other causes. - How Long do Bed Bugs Bite You?
Each bed bug may feed from three to 10 minutes. This is plenty for them to get what they need. The more a bed bug grows, the longer it is likely to feed. - When are Bed Bugs Active?
Bed bugs are nocturnal – active at night. You will likely get bitten only at night, while you are sleeping, so they get away unnoticed. You’ll simply wake up to itches in the different parts of your body. Consequently, you won’t be taking the correct steps to exterminate them as your attention will be on something else. - Where do You Check for Signs of Bed Bugs?
There are some signs you can look for to detect a bed bug infestation. Check your pillowcases and bedsheets for bloodstains or dark and rusty spots. Also check seams in furniture, wall outlets, or any other creased spot. - Do Bed Bugs Smell?
Bed bugs emit an offensive, musty odor from their scent glands. If you see bugs in your home and they are emitting a foul smell, call a bed bug exterminator, such as Invader Pest Management, to rid your home of these pests.
Sleep Better Without Bed Bugs
Bed bugs can feel impossible to treat. But they don’t have to be! Instead of relying on DIY methods that can leave you feeling hopeless, choose the professional option to get the job done. At Invader Pest Management, we can offer a professional inspection on all our Phoenix bed bug treatments. We’ll help you figure out and understand where these creatures are hiding and the most effective solution for your home. We treat bed bugs in: