Bed bugs can infest even the nicest apartment complexes. To protect yourself, your friends, and your family, it is good to brush up on what bed bugs are, how to detect them, and how to get rid of them. Fortunately, you've come to the right place.

What is a bed bug? Bed bugs, or Cimex lectularius, are a parasitic insect from the cimicid family that feeds exclusively on blood. In the larva state they can be as small as 1.5 mm long to roughly 4.5 mm long. If they have had a recent blood meal they can appear round like a tick, but are flat and seed-like, otherwise.

These bugs are hitchhikers and can be picked up in hotels, motels, resorts, cruise ships, airplanes, buses, taxis, movie theaters, other people's homes, and anywhere there is a bed or upholstered furniture.

Bed bugs can feed without detection. This give them the ability to feed on you while you're watching a movie, taking a quick ride to the airport, or flying overseas.

How to detect bed bugs.

When you are staying anywhere, be sure to check all mattresses and box springs for black fecal residue. Inspect sheets for dried blood stains. And, use a flashlight to examine all upholstered furniture in the room. If you are in a movie theater, use the light on your cellphone to examine the arm rests for black residue or the bugs themselves. Be aware that these bugs hitch a ride in bags, luggage, and clothing.

How to get rid of bed bugs.  

If you find bed bugs in your home or business, get a pest management company, like Thomas Pest Services, involved. With state-of-the-art equipment, an on-staff entomologist, and the Angie's list Super Service award under their belt, you'll know the job will be done discreetly and professionally. If you live in or around Albany NY, you're in good hands.