Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
Identification
- clear (unfed young) to straw-colored to reddish brown
- oval-shaped, flat bodies
- NEVER with wings; six legs
Nesting Habits
- rest in crevices and cracks near or on furniture
- student backpacks, clothing, wheelchairs, books, personal items, etc.
- can be found anywhere
Diet
- human blood; can feed day or night
- must feed between every life stage
Significance
- can be difficult and costly to eliminate
- bites may result in redness, itching and swelling
- infestations can cause sleeplessness and nervousness in those who have been bitten
- negative social publicity for schools and social stigma
IPM Recommendations
- Develop a bed bug action plan before bed bugs are present, and train all faculty and staff.
- Consider identification by a professional entomologist.
- Inspect and monitor areas with upholstered furniture as well as donations, lost and found items and children’s belongings.
- Remove clutter or store in sealable containers.
- Seal cracks and crevices.
- Heat-treat individual infested items.
- Be discrete in dealing with persons bringing bed bugs into buildings on personal belongings.
- There are many controls available, consult with a professional entomologist on best control methods.