Do Bed Bugs Have Natural Predators?
WouterBed bugs do not have many natural predators, but there are some. One of these is the house dust mite. Many people think of dust mites as a nuisance, but these creatures are actually great at eating bed bugs. Another effective predator is the gecko. These creatures are very good at eating bed bugs, but they require a special habitat.
These masked hunters feed on the eggs of the bedbugs. They have very long mouthparts and suck the fluids of other insects. Another natural predator of bedbugs is the masked hunter bug, which evolved in rabbit and bat burrows and now inhabits homes. It may eat bed bugs, but it is not a proven way to eradicate an infestation.
Another possible natural predator is a lizard. Though lizards are not typically seen around homes, they are great at eating bedbug larvae. While lizards are only practical in tropical climates, they can prevent an infestation from taking hold. Lizards also eat the bedbug parasites in cushions and patio furniture.
Other predators of bedbugs include lizards, spiders, and cockroaches. Some even include household pets. Despite the presence of these creatures, their numbers aren’t significantly reduced by them. This is largely due to their incredible ability to hide in places.
