What Does a Bed Bug Look Like?
Bed bugs are clear or white when they first hatch, and they develop a reddish-brown color as they mature. The insects also have short golden hairs on their heads and backs. Their flat, oval-shaped bodies resemble apple seeds, especially when they darken and swell up after consuming human or animal blood.
How Big Is a Bed Bug?
Adult bed bugs grow to about a quarter of an inch in length. The pests can expand to about three-eighths of an inch in length temporarily after feeding, but they shrink back down after they digest a blood meal. Their minuscule size allows them to hide in narrow gaps and spaces in bed frames, mattress seams, and upholstery piping.
Since bed bugs are so tiny, they often go unnoticed. As a result, people often unknowingly transport them on clothes, luggage, or towels. Travelers often bring the pests into their homes and businesses without realizing it. Bed bugs can live undetected for months within cracks in bedframes and floor boards.
Bed Bug Photo Gallery
Since bed bugs are so hard to spot, itchy bites and rashes or rusty brown stains on the sheets are often the first indications of a problem. When it comes to getting rid of these insects, knowing the signs of a bed bug infestation can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. Check out the pictures below to learn more about bed bugs and the traces they leave behind.
Bed Bug Images
Close-up picture of bed bug
People can sometimes mistake these pests for cockroaches or carpet beetles due to their similar shape, size, and color. However, reddish-brown bed bugs have a flattened abdomen and a horizontal stripe pattern, while the other insects are more robust with unique mottled brown coloring.
Bed Bug Inspection Images
Waltham technician inspecting mattress for bed bugs
Checking for bed bugs early can prevent an infestation from spreading throughout your entire home. Grab a flashlight and scan your mattresses, box springs, and headboards for any signs of these pests. In addition to seeing live insects and reddish stains, you may find shed skins, bed bug eggs, or dark spots from their droppings.
Waltham tech and hotel manager inspecting mattress seam
The steady stream of people allows bed bugs to flourish in hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts. Inspecting the furniture whenever you are staying away from home can help avoid lying down in an infested bed, and stop you from unknowingly bringing these pests along with you on your trip.