CREATURE FEATURE

BED BUGS

Did you know that the ancient ancestors of bed bugs once shared caves with both bats and humans? These parasites have been with us for thousands of years, adapting to our homes as we evolved.  With the rise of cities and the expansion of trade routes, bed bug infestations took hold and spread to new regions. Now, the common bed bug has a worldwide distribution and is the dominant bed bug in temperate climates.  

Unlike lice and adult fleas, bed bugs don’t live directly on their hosts. Instead, they reside as nest parasites, seeking out dark, concealed spaces where they can remain undisturbed.  For human hosts, these parasites typically hide in sleeping or resting areas. However, as infestations grow, they spread to unexpected locations, including closets, hallways, bathrooms, and kitchens.  The tendency to aggregate also decreases as access to food decreases.  At any given time, bed bugs actively move throughout structures, especially adult females.

Detecting bed bugs early can prevent costly, large-scale infestations that are far more challenging to manage.  Visual inspection is the most common method but is less reliable at detecting low-level infestations. Tools like TruDetx allow for rapid and accurate identification of bed bug residues, helping to confirm low-level infestations in minutes. Once bed bugs are detected, timely treatment is critical to prevent them from multiplying. This is where Temprid Dust excels, offering a lasting solution by targeting areas that liquid insecticides cannot reach. Its dual-action formula eliminates bed bugs quickly and provides a residual for years when left dry and undisturbed.

Together, tools like TruDetx and Temprid Dust provide a powerful combination for early detection and effective treatment, helping to keep bed bug infestations under control before they can spread.