Over the past two decades, there has been a resurgence of bed bugs in the U.S. Although the exact reason isn’t known, it’s likely due to an increase in travel and decrease in pesticide use. Make no mistakes, bed bugs are more than just a mere nuisance. Their bites can cause an allergic reaction, and wreak havoc on your ability to get a good night’s sleep. That’s why it’s important to eradicate an infestation as soon as it’s detected.
Our experts here at Westwood Pest Control thoroughly inspect your home for bed bugs, and use the latest equipment to get rid of them once and for all. Think you got bed bugs? Call Westwood Pest Control for experienced bed bug exterminators in Greater Boston. Our experienced professionals have years of combined experience and will work tirelessly to make sure your nightmare comes to an end. We take pride in providing high-quality bed bug exterminator services in Boston to ensure these nasty pests won’t return to your property.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small, wingless parasitic insects that feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals. And unfortunately for us, humans are their favorite snack. Bed bugs can be mahogany or red-brown in color, although nymphs are nearly colorless. They’re flat and ovular when unfed and look swollen and elongated after a meal. Bed bugs also have six legs and antennae, and can be found virtually anywhere in the U.S.
These blood-sucking pests can live for months without feeding, and they love to travel. To wit, bed bugs are often brought home after visiting a hotel, college dorm, retail shop, cruise ship, hospital, nursing home, taxi, bus, train or airplane. They can even be picked up in otherwise vacant buildings. This is why it’s important to hire an experienced professional ASAP if you believe bed bugs have invaded your property.
3 Signs of A Bed Bug Infestation
There are several signs you can lookout for that can help you determine whether or not you have a bed bug infestation in your home. These include bed bug bites, spotting them, or noticing brown or reddish spots. We discuss each of these three bed bug signs in more detail below. If you notice any of these signs, we highly suggest that you call our bed bug exterminator professionals here at Westwood Pest Control, to get the situation inspected and taken cared for you in no-time.
1. Bed Bug Bites
Bites are the most commonly reported sign of a bed bug infestation. Bed bug bites often appear in zigzag lines or straight rows on exposed skin, leaving behind red, itchy welts. These creatures are nocturnal, so you’ll most likely notice the bites in the morning after a night’s rest. Anytime you wake up with red welts, you’ll want to check for bed bugs immediately.
2. You Spot Them
Bed bug eggs, nymphs, and adults are all visible to the human eye. Fully-grown, bed bugs are about the size of a lentil and can double in size after feeding. These pests are often found in couches and bed frames, but they might also show up in stuffed animals, purses, suitcases, shoes, curtains, carpeting, and even items like bedside lamps. If their food source is nearby, they’re likely hiding within close proximity.
3. Brown or Reddish Spots
Additionally, bed bugs will leave behind small brownish or reddish dots on bed linens and mattresses. These spots are actually tiny blood stains. You might also notice a musty odor like that of a wet towel. This strong scent is caused by bed bug pheromones.