Why Do Bed Bugs Have Stripes?
WouterIf you have a bed with a mattress made of a material that is not breathable, you may be tempted to look for bedbugs. While bedbugs are not harmful, they can be a nuisance, especially on a warm afternoon. If you suspect that there may be a problem with bedbugs, you should know that you can safely get rid of them.
Bedbugs can be mistaken for fleas. Fleas are a common household pest and look similar to bedbugs. They have spiny legs and back-pointing bristles. They are also excellent jumpers. They can get into your home through your pet, and their larvae will lay eggs in carpets, mattresses, and other places.
Bedbugs are small insects, about the size of an apple seed, with a black band inside their abdomen. These insects feed by sucking on human blood. They feed for three to 12 minutes, and will stop feeding if you disturb their feeding. They often feed in a row. Whether or not they are feeding will depend on whether their host is in a warm or cool environment.
Adult bedbugs leave behind black streaks in your sheets, pillows, and baseboards. They will also leave behind old shell casings that can be seen on your bed or bedding.
