Bed bug infestations have surged in the U.S., with reports indicating a 71% increase in extermination calls from 2000 to 2005. No residence, business, hospital, school, or hotel is immune. In the Northeast United States, nearly 20% of people report experiencing or knowing someone who has had a bed bug problem.
Bed bugs are prolific breeders. According to the CDC, a single female bed bug can lead to over 5,000 in just six months. Once they invade, they are nearly impossible to control without professional a exterminator. If you spot a bed bug, it is safe to assume there are dozens—if not hundreds—more nearby.
Adult bed bugs are approximately 3/16th of an inch; (4-5 mm) in size. They have a flat, oval shape, allowing them to hide in small cracks and crevices. They are rust-brown in color and turn reddish-brown after feeding.
Bed bugs are obligatory bloodsucking insects, meaning they can only survive by feeding on blood. The most common species, Cimex lectularius, prefers human blood. Unlike other species that may feed on animals, these pests thrive in homes, hotels, and businesses.
Bed bugs can survive for weeks or even months between feedings, making them a persistent threat.
Bed bugs typically bite around the feet and ankles, where the skin is thin. These bites often cause itching, sometimes leading to sleep disturbances and allergic reactions. While bed bugs can carry various pathogens, research has not linked them to the spread of diseases.
One of the earliest signs of a bed bug infestation is the presence of bites. Other physical indicators include:
Bed bugs are nocturnal and remain hidden during the day. Due to their size and shape, they can easily conceal themselves in:
While no method is 100% foolproof, taking precautions can significantly reduce the risk of an infestation:
Despite technological advances, traditional bed bug extermination methods remain among the most effective solutions for eliminating infestations:
Professional bed bug extermination is often the only guaranteed solution. Studies show that bed bugs are resistant to many DIY treatments available to the public. Over-the-counter solutions are frequently ineffective, making professional intervention necessary.
Newtown Termite & Pest Control, Inc. has been serving homeowners and businesses for nearly 30 years. As a licensed bed bug exterminator in Feasterville, Trevose, and Lower Southampton Township, PA, we provide:
Hiring a bed bug exterminator in Bucks County, PA ensures that infestations are handled efficiently and thoroughly. Unlike DIY solutions, professional treatments provide targeted extermination and long-term protection.
Want to learn more about bed bugs? Check out these resources: