Have you ever heard of bat bugs? If not, you’re not alone. These tiny pests are often mistaken for bed bugs, but they have a different origin and behavior. In this article, we’ll explain what bat bugs are, how to identify them, and what to do if you suspect an infestation.
What are bat bugs?
Bat bugs are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of bats. They are closely related to bed bugs and have a similar appearance, but they are adapted to living in bat colonies rather than human homes. Bat bugs are not known to transmit diseases, but their bites can cause itching and discomfort.
How to identify bat bugs?
Bat bugs are small, oval-shaped insects that are reddish-brown in color. They are about the size of an apple seed, but can be difficult to see without magnification. The easiest way to identify bat bugs is to look for them in bat roosts or nesting areas, such as attics, chimneys, and barns. You may also notice bat bugs in your home if bats have nested in your attic or walls.
Signs of Bat Bug Infestation
If you suspect a bat bug infestation, there are several signs to look for:
- Small, reddish-brown insects crawling on walls, floors, or furniture
- Tiny white eggs or shed skins in cracks and crevices
- Musty odor or stains on bedding or upholstery
- Bats or bird nests in or around your home
What to do if you have bat bugs?
If you have bat bugs in your home, it’s important to address the underlying bat infestation first. Contact a wildlife control professional to safely remove any bats from your property and seal up entry points (exclusion) to prevent future infestations. Once the bats are gone, a pest control professional can treat your home for bat bugs using targeted insecticides and other control methods.
Prevention Tips
To prevent bat bugs and other bat-related pests from invading your home, consider these prevention tips:
- Seal gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior to keep bats out
- Install bat houses away from your home to provide an alternative roosting site
- Trim trees and shrubs near your home to eliminate bat roosting spots
- Inspect your attic, chimney, and vents regularly for signs of bat activity
Say Good-bye to Bat Bugs with Terminix!
If you suspect that you have a bat bug infestation, contact the wildlife control and exclusion experts at Terminix. Our team of professionals can help you identify and eliminate bat bugs from your home, and we can also provide preventative measures to keep them from returning.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards a bat bug-free home.