Everything You Need To Know About South Florida Bed Bugs

Bite Marks on Skin – Bed bug bites usually result in small, red, itchy welts that appear in a straight line or clustered pattern. They are typically found on exposed skin areas such as the face, neck, arms, and legs. The bites often become inflamed and itchy due to an allergic reaction to the bed bugs’ saliva. Scratching the bites can lead to secondary infections.

Blood Stains on Sheets – Small, rusty-colored blood spots on your sheets, pillowcases, or mattresses are a common sign of bed bugs. These blood stains are typically the result of bed bugs being crushed while feeding. They are often found near the corners and edges of mattresses and bedding. The presence of these stains indicates that bed bugs are active and feeding in your sleeping area.

Dark or Rusty Spots on Bedding and Mattresses – Fecal spots left by bed bugs appear as dark or rusty-colored specks on sheets, mattresses, bed frames, and nearby furniture. These spots are actually digested blood that bed bugs excrete after feeding. They can be found in clusters, often in hidden areas where bed bugs congregate. Fecal spots are a reliable indicator of an active infestation and can help locate bed bug hiding places.

Musty Odor – A strong, musty odor in the room, often compared to the smell of coriander, can indicate a large bed bug infestation. This odor is produced by the scent glands of bed bugs and becomes more noticeable as the infestation grows. The smell can be particularly strong in areas where bed bugs are concentrated, such as behind headboards, inside box springs, and in the seams of mattresses.

Shed Skins – Bed bugs molt as they grow, leaving behind shed skins that are translucent and can be found in areas where bed bugs hide. These shed skins, also known as exoskeletons, are left behind as bed bugs progress through their five nymphal stages before reaching adulthood. Finding shed skins is a sign of an active and growing infestation. 

Bed Bug Eggs and Eggshells – Tiny, white, oval eggs and eggshells, about 1mm in size, can be found in cracks, crevices, and other hidden areas. Female bed bugs lay eggs in secluded places, often gluing them to surfaces. The eggs are pearly white and hard to see with the naked eye, but they can be found with careful inspection. Empty eggshells left behind after hatching are also a sign of an ongoing infestation.

Nymphs (Young Bed Bugs) – Bed bug nymphs are smaller and lighter in color compared to adults and can often be seen moving in and out of hiding places. Nymphs are translucent or pale in color and become darker as they mature. They go through several molts before reaching adulthood, requiring blood meals at each stage. Their presence, along with adults and eggs, confirms an active breeding population.

Increased Itching and Allergic Reactions – Persistent itching and allergic reactions, such as rashes and hives, can be caused by bed bug bites and indicate their presence. Some people may experience more severe reactions to bed bug bites, including blister-like welts and intense itching. Reactions can vary based on individual sensitivity and frequency of bites. If unexplained itching or skin reactions occur, it’s important to inspect your sleeping area for bed bugs.

Increased Activity at Night – Bed bugs are nocturnal and are most active at night. If you notice more bites or activity during nighttime, it’s a sign of an infestation. Bed bugs typically feed just before dawn when hosts are in deep sleep. If you notice bite marks appearing overnight or spot live bed bugs during nighttime inspections, it’s a strong indicator of their presence.

Pet Discomfort – Pets may also be affected by bed bugs, showing signs of discomfort, itching, or bites. Bed bugs can bite pets, leading to similar reactions as seen in humans, such as itching and irritation. If your pets are restless and exhibit signs of bites, it’s important to check their bedding and sleeping areas for bed bugs.