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Do Bed Bugs Bite?

Bed bugs are infamous for their bites. But why do bed bugs bite? Bed bugs feed at night when their victim is at rest. While their bites aren’t typically felt, they may later cause red, itchy bites. 

Here’s what to know about the bite of a bed bug:

  • Bites will appear on areas of the body that are exposed at night, such as the arms and legs.
  • Bites are commonly arranged in lines or zigzag patterns.
  • Everyone reacts to bites differently. Some people have no symptoms while others can get welts and more serious rashes. 
Do bed bugs bite? | New Berlin WI | Batzner Pest Control

What Time of Day Do Bed Bugs Bite?

More often than not, bed bugs are active overnight when their victims are at rest. They will feed overnight when people are sleeping. Their bites are typically painless and won’t wake you up. The bed bug will usually feed for anywhere up to 10 minutes. Once they become engorged, they will crawl away. 

Bed bugs are considered nocturnal and peak in activity between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. However, they can adjust their schedule and will emerge to feed whenever you are at rest, even in the middle of the day.

Where Do Bed Bugs Bite People?

Bed bugs will bite any part of the body where the skin is exposed overnight. This includes your arms, legs, hands, feet, and even your neck. Their bites occur in lines or zigzag patterns. As scary as it sounds, bed bugs can even bite your face. 

Although this is a possibility, you don’t need to worry about bed bugs crawling in your nose, mouth, or ears, which is a common (and understandable) concern. These bugs feed on the surface of your body and prefer to retreat to their hiding spots once they finish feeding.

Are Bites From Bed Bugs Dangerous?

Usually, bed bug bites result in itchy, red marks on the skin. In serious cases, rashes or welts can form. While bed bugs do not transmit any diseases, it’s important to treat bed bug bites in order to have them heal properly. If you begin to notice any concerning symptoms after being bitten, always consult a medical professional.

Do Bed Bugs Bite? in Wisconsin

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