
Fast facts on bed bugs
Whether you’ve experienced a bed bug infestation or know someone who has, chances are you’re already familiar with these persistent pests. Small, oval-shaped, and typically nestled within the folds of bedding and linens, bed bugs are more than just a nuisance.
But how much do you really know about them? These fast facts on bed bugs will shed light on their habits, survival skills, and why professional pest control is often the only way to eliminate them effectively.
If you’re currently dealing with bed bugs in your home, the pest control experts at PROSHIELD are ready to assist.
1. Bed bugs and their eggs are incredibly tiny
A single female bed bug can lay over 500 eggs in her lifetime. The eggs are so small that they often go unnoticed—making it easy for infestations to spread rapidly before you even realise there’s a problem.
This is exactly why early pest prevention is essential.
2. They ingest far more than their weight in blood
One of the most shocking facts: bed bugs can ingest up to seven times their own body weight in blood. That’s the human equivalent of drinking over 100 litres in one sitting!
3. They can live almost anywhere
While bed bugs are commonly found in beds and soft furnishings, they can also hide in:
- Wall cracks
- Flooring crevices
- Behind picture frames
- Inside electrical sockets
Hot climates like the UAE are particularly favourable for these nocturnal pests, making bed bug control services in the region increasingly important.
4. Not everyone shows signs of bites
Only around 30% of people show visible signs of bed bug bites. This makes diagnosis tricky, as bites can be mistaken for conditions like chickenpox or scabies. The absence of bite marks in some individuals allows infestations to go undetected for more extended periods.
5. They survive high temperatures
Bed bugs are surprisingly resilient. They can survive in temperatures up to 113°F (45°C), so even the intense desert heat in the UAE doesn’t deter them. When heat treatments or DIY methods fail, it’s time to call a pest control specialist.
6. They live up to a year
The average bed bug’s lifespan is between 6 and 12 months, which gives them plenty of time to breed and expand their colony. Regular disinfection and pest control services are vital, especially in regions like the UAE, where infestations can be challenging to manage without professional support.
7. They prefer humans over any other host
Although bed bugs can feed on mammals and birds, humans are their preferred host. These pests are capable of travelling 5 to 20 feet to reach their next meal, and they typically feed for 3 to 12 minutes before retreating to their hiding spots.
Need help? Get a free pest control quote!
PROSHIELD – for your bed bug problem
Now that you know what you’re up against, it’s time to take action. Left untreated, bed bug infestations only worsen with time. Our trained technicians use safe, effective methods to eliminate bed bugs and prevent reinfestation.
Call us today and let PROSHIELD handle the rest.