Bed Bugs

Bed bugs have largely been thought of as being a problem of the past. Unfortunately, we are now experiencing a widespread recurrence of bed bugs in Ontario. The most significant factor that explains their return is the increase in international travel. Bed bugs can easily get into clothing or luggage and be carried home by the unaware traveler. Bed bugs do not discriminate. Even the finest hotels are not immune. These parasites have been found infesting homes of both the rich and the poor in all parts of the world.

A bed bug does not actually live under your skin, but will simply drink a few drops of blood while you are sleeping. These tenacious pests are about 3/8" long and are visible to the naked eye. The different species have different feeding preferences. Some prefer human blood while others prefer bats and birds. You cannot feel its bite, even though it is actually piercing the skin. Although some saliva will get into the bite, these creatures are not known to pass on any diseases to humans. Only about half of the people bitten by these creepy crawlers will experience an allergic reaction in the form of a red, swollen, itchy, welt like bump. Antihistamines and corticosteroids may be given to help relieve the itching. This means that approximately 50% of the bug bite victims do not show any evidence of the bites. This can make it more difficult for some property owners to discover that they have a problem before the infestation becomes severe.

They are attracted to the warmth of their victims resting bodies as they lay in bed. This is why these nasty little parasites are commonly found in bedding, underneath mattresses, behind headboards, and along the seams of mattresses and cushions. While many hide in mattresses, some may also hide in a sofa or chair, or behind wall paper or pictures.

Since their reappearance over the last decade, researchers have found that the new bed bugs are much more resistant to chemicals that had previously been in use. Insecticides that are often used for roaches and similar insects are ineffective on bed bugs. Bed bugs, in particular, require the services of a professional exterminator or pest control management. Without treatment, the population of the bed bugs occupying the home will only increase. If you think they will die on their own if the home is evacuated you would be mistaken. Amazingly, they are able to go without food for as long as a year. After getting their fill of blood, the females will lay eggs in batches of up to 200 at a time. Furthermore, the cold temperatures of Ontario do not deter them, only heat at 45 degrees Celsius and above will kill them. You know if they can survive a winter then they can survive just about anything except a visit from Domtech Pest Control.