The Cimex lectularius L, better known as “mahogany flat” or the bed bug, can live up to one year with a steady supply of human blood to feed on. This is the only species of its kind that have adapted to living with humans and feeding on their blood.
They also feed on other warm blooded hosts like animals and pets. These are small parasites that measure about 3/16th inch long, are flat, and have a reddish color to them. There are times when they feed unnoticed.
Studies have shown that bed bugs have been linked to insomnia, anemia, and even psychological and emotional problems. One who is constantly being bitten by these bugs may have disturbed sleep and steady feeding might be the reason for low blood count especially in children.
Psychological and emotional problems arise due to being affected by the unsightly welts and itching that may remain after bites.
They thrive in bed sheets, cracks in furniture, bed boards, and even picture frames. It is a public health issue since many of them can also be found in hotels and where people rest such as the traveling lounge.
These small oval shaped blood suckers can lay up to 500 eggs while they live. Homeowners can practice simple ways to catch bed bugs before there is a big infestation.
A professional exterminator will also be able to rid one’s home of these insects, but before opening the wallet, read on to learn ways to be a bed bug exterminator:
1. Keep an eye out for reddish brown insects on the mattress and bed sheets. It is also worthwhile to look at the seams where they may grow.
2. Look under the mattress and around the furniture or small spaces within 5 feet from the bed during the day. The bedbug is most busy at night, but during the day, one might find them hiding in those areas.
3. Do not put the luggage on the bed or on the floor. They are known to stick or catch a ride in traveling bags. Keeping the luggage away from the bed will prevent them from jumping onto the mattress and sleeping areas. As much as possible, keep luggages in separate places away from the bedroom. On another side note, it is also worthwhile to inspect luggage frequently especially after traveling and to keep it organized and clean.
4. Wash bed sheets in the hottest temperature.
5. Be wary of buying 2nd hand furniture as bed bugs may be living within the cracks. Inspect it carefully before buying.
6. After invited guests leave the home, inspect the room carefully and wash all beddings as stated above.
7. Practice a sanitary and clutter free environment. In this way, bed bugs will have fewer places to hide and will make it easier to spot. Guard your family by practicing these simple bed bug exterminator tips.
