Bed Bugs in Memphis TN Metro Area
Bed bugs, present in every state across the country, are nighttime creatures that solely rely on blood for sustenance. While humans are their preferred hosts, they also feed on birds and mammals. These elusive pests possess a talent for hiding in narrow gaps and fissures, selecting locations where they are unlikely to be disturbed. Bed bugs primarily feed during the night while their unsuspecting host slumbers, and astonishingly, they can survive for over a year without a blood meal. Since their bites are essentially painless, detecting their feeding activity is a rarity.
Bed Bug Habitat
Bed bugs thrive in communal settings, taking up residence in locations where humans spend prolonged periods of rest or sleep. Unbeknownst to individuals, bed bugs often hitchhike during travels, unknowingly transported from one place to another. They cleverly conceal themselves in the seams and folds of various items such as luggage, overnight bags, bedding, and furniture—essentially anywhere they can find a hiding spot. It’s not uncommon to encounter bed bugs in homes, hotels, apartments, schools, healthcare facilities, and other public areas frequently visited by people. These pests exhibit a preference for cracks, crevices, and seams, often targeting headboards, mattresses, luggage, backpacks, and upholstered furniture.
Bed Bug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Bed bugs, while not known to spread diseases or pose a direct threat, can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals that may require medical attention. The initial indication of a bed bug infestation often manifests as bites on the skin or the presence of small brownish spots on bedding. These resilient pests find their way to humans through the transfer of used furniture, bedding, or belongings that move from one location to another, as well as through shared pipes in neighboring apartments or hotel rooms. It’s worth noting that bed bug bites can go unnoticed by those who have been bitten, but some individuals may experience raised, welt-like swelling in a linear pattern on the skin. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it is advisable to seek the assistance of professional bed bug exterminator.