Bat Bugs vs Bed Bugs
Although they may sound like the same pest, bat bugs and bed bugs are two very different creatures. Bat bugs feed primarily on blood from bats, while bed bugs will feed on the blood of any warm-blooded creature, including humans. Because they are native to different environments, bat bugs don’t typically infest human homes, while bed bugs are a common household pest. Although they look similar, it’s important to be able to tell the two pests apart, so you can know how to address the problem if you encounter one in your home.
What do Bat Bugs Look Like?
Bat bugs have bodies that look like small oval saucers, which makes them perfect for hiding in cracks and crevices. These insects are transparent tan or beige colored but will quickly turn dark brown after eating their meal. The mouthpart that looks like a beak is made for piercing and sucking.
Bat bugs and bed bugs are sometimes hard to tell apart. The most useful identifying feature for this would be their hair; a bat-eating insect has longer hairs on its upper thorax than bed bugs. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to see this difference without the use of a microscope.
Where do Bat Bugs Live?
As their name suggests, bat bugs live near bats. They are found in caves, trees, and other areas where these animals roost. Bats provide both food and shelter for these insects, and they will happily ride along on their host’s fur to new locations.
Difference Between Bat Bug & Bed Bug
The easiest way to tell the difference between a bat bug and a bed bug is by their preferred diet. Bat bugs feed on the blood of bats, while bed bugs will feed on any warm-blooded creature, including humans. Because they have different food preferences, these insects are found in different environments. Bat bugs are typically found near where bats roost, such as in caves or trees, while bed bugs are more commonly found in human dwellings, such as homes and hotels.
Bat Bugs Bite Vs Bed Bugs Bite
Bat bugs are nearly painless, but leave inflamed marks on the skin. Redness and swelling may occur at bite sites-but don’t worry! They cannot transfer disease to humans.
You need to know that if your child has been bitten by a bat bug before then there is no need for concern because their bites will not cause any harm or infection in most cases. Bed bug bites, on the other hand, can be painful and itchy. They can also lead to secondary infections if they are not properly treated.
How do Bat Bugs and Bed Bugs Get into Homes?
Although they don’t typically feed on humans, bat bugs can enter homes in search of their furry hosts. If a bat is roosting in your attic or another part of your home, these insects may come inside in search of a meal. Once they’re inside, they can be difficult to get rid of. If you have bats in your home, it’s important to take steps to get rid of them as soon as possible to prevent an infestation of bat bugs.
Bed bugs, on the other hand, are often introduced into homes by humans. These insects hitchhike their way into our homes on luggage, clothing, and used furniture. They can also come inside on visitors who have them in their own homes. Once they’re inside, bed bugs can be difficult to get rid of because they reproduce quickly and are experts at hiding.
Bat Bugs and Bed Bugs Pest Management
The difference between these two bloodsuckers is important because they look the same but there’s a big distinction when it comes to controlling them. If you think you may have either of these pests, it’s important to contact a professional for proper pest identification and management.
If you have bats in your home, more likely bat bugs occur. The best way to get rid of bat bugs is to remove the bats. This can be done by sealing off any openings that the bats are using to get into your home and then waiting for them to fly out on their own. Once the bats are gone, you can take steps to prevent them from returning, such as sealing cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior.
Bed bugs are more difficult to get rid of because they often hide in cracks and crevices that are difficult to reach. A professional exterminator will likely use a combination of chemical and non-chemical treatments to get rid of these pests. These may include using insecticidal sprays, dust, and baits as well as vacuuming and steaming infested areas.
If you have either of these insects in your home, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from coming back. To do this, you should:
- Vacuum regularly and dispose of the vacuum bag immediately to prevent re-infestation.
- Inspect secondhand furniture and clothing before bringing it into your home.
- Avoid traveling to places with known bed bug infestations.
- Inspect your luggage after traveling and wash your clothes in hot water upon returning home.
- Seal cracks and gaps in your home's exterior to prevent pests from getting inside.
- Keep your home clean and clutter-free, especially at attics where bats are more likely to roost.
- With these tips, you can help prevent an infestation of bat bugs or bed bugs in your home. If you think you may already have an infestation, contact a professional exterminator like Thrive Pest Control for help.