Are Bed Bugs Always Visible?
WouterIf you are dealing with bed bug infestation, one of the first things you should do is to know the difference between adults and babies. Adult bed bugs are much larger than their baby counterparts and can be seen with the naked eye. Baby bed bugs are much lighter and can be easily overlooked. If you notice an adult bed bug in your bed, you will need to take immediate action to prevent the infestation.
Typically, bed bugs bite on exposed skin. They may also bite on clothing or along clothing compression lines. Although these bites are visible, only 30 percent of people react to the bites. In addition to bites, bed bugs may also produce alarm pheromones. These odors can mimic the smell of raspberries, coriander, cilantro, or almonds.
Adult bed bugs are about 3/16 inches long, with an oval flattened body. Their bodies are usually brown or reddish in color. They can also resemble apple seeds. Adult bed bugs do not fly, but they can crawl rapidly across surfaces. Young bedbugs are usually whitish yellow or translucent.
Symptoms of an infestation include red, scaly or itchy skin and droppings. The bites of these bugs are non-poisonous. They live in the folds of mattresses and box springs. They also shed papery skins, which look like small kernels of popcorn. Their droppings are also accompanied by dark spots.
