Bed Bugs

“Sleep tight. Don’t let the bed bugs bite.” You have probably heard this old saying thinking Bed bugs weren’t real or something of the past. Who would have thought this common saying would become a reality again in our lifetimes. Experts are blaming increased world travel, pesticide resistance, and the poor awareness by the general public for the Bed bug resurgence. These small, blood-sucking insects are great hitch hikers and can be unknowingly transported into new locations.Tucson has been experiencing more and more Bed bug problems. The Pima County Health Department has reported a significant increase in calls in 2012 than in 2011. Pest Control Operators are also reporting similar increases in calls.

Early detection of Bed bugs is very important when preventing a problem. Adult bed bugs are a reddish-brown mahogany color and their bodies are flattened and oval shaped. They measure 1/4” to 5/8” long and up to 1/8” wide. The bugs appear shiny when seen despite being covered with tiny hairs. Bed Bugs have piercing-sucking mouthparts they use to feed on their human hosts. They prefer to hide during the day deep in cracks and crevices close to where people sleep. The presence of bed bugs can often be detected by their fecal matter, eggs, and skin castes. This mix can often look similar to salt and pepper.

Bed bug infestations are often brought into homes and apartments in infested furniture. FREE beds or furniture from a popular bartering website could result in a major problem. Bed bugs also can hitch a ride in luggage when traveling. Hotels, motels, and hostiles have been featured in the media as Bed bug hot spots. Whenever staying overnight in one these places, always pull back the sheets and check the bed area for signs of bed bugs.

Check out how bed bugs are coming back in Tucson:

http://www.kvoa.com/news/bed-bug-infestations-on-the-rise-in-tucson1/

Check out these bed bugs infesting a couch: