How Long Do Bed Bugs Survive Without a Host?

Bed bugs are capable of surviving without blood for as long as two months. However, their survival time decreases as temperatures increase. Their unique survival mechanism involves going into a sort of hibernation. During prolonged fasting periods, they generate a “hunger bubble” in their abdomens, filling the space where a meal would normally go.

They can survive without food for months and even years. They are more likely to survive without a host when the temperature is lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. If left untended, bedbugs can feed on your pets, rats, and mice, among other things. Leaving your mattress alone won’t eliminate these bugs; sealing it is the only solution. The only other way to get rid of bed bugs is to purchase a mattress cover that prevents them from coming back.

During long periods of time, bed bugs can survive without a host by going through a diapause-like state. This state slows down the metabolism and conserves energy. Once their host is available, they resume their normal behavior. If you notice a bed bug infestation in your home, you should try to find a place where the temperature is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Adult bed bugs are oval, wingless, and about 1/5 inch long. They have well developed antennae and small compound eyes. They also have a pronotum behind their head that bears small hairs. The immature stage, called nymphs, is much smaller than the adult stage. They have a thin outer skeleton and are a lighter yellowish-white color.

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