Insects Similar to Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are members of the Cimicidae family of insects. They live by drinking the blood of warm-blooded creatures like humans. Members of this family can live in all parts of the world. Although they are not known to transmit human diseases, excessive bites can lead to blood loss and anemia. There are several types of insects similar to the bed bug.

Martin Bugs

• Martin bugs, like bed bugs, are members of the cimicidae family. These insects infest the nests of birds. They act similarly to bed bugs; they feed on the blood of the birds whose nest they inhabit. Depending on where the nest is located, Martin bugs will infest a house after the nest they live in has been abandoned. The Martin bug will infest the eaves and lofts of a house. They have been known to bite humans. They are similar looking to their cousins the bed bugs with a flattened oval-shaped body that will become engorged after a meal. To prevent Martin bugs from entering homes, be sure to remove abandoned nests as soon as possible.

Fleas

• Although fleas belong to a different species of insect, they are similar to the bed bug. Their appearances are similar and they both use blood of a live host for nutrition. The flea can go up to 100 days between feeding. Unlike bed bugs, fleas have the power to transfer diseases to humans and therefore pose a bigger threat if they infest a home. Fleas are known to pass along such harmful diseases as the plague, especially in poorer countries. They also have the ability to transmit parasites such as tapeworms to both animals and humans. Steps should be taken to prevent the infestation of fleas on pets. This can be done through oral medications or topical creams.

Dust Mites

• Dust mites are members of the Arachnida class of insects; they are related to the tick. Unlike bed bugs, they do not suck blood and don’t need a live host to survive. They are similar to bed bugs in the sense that they can inhabit human dwellings especially beds due to their warmth and humidity--and because they contain the dander, skin cells and scales, that dust mites feed on. Mites do not normally bite humans, but the reaction to the bug's presence is similar to the bed bug because it causes a red and itchy spot. Dust mites are known to cause allergies and trigger asthma attacks. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, “dust mites and their feces can become airborne and are one of the most common indoor allergens. That is, most persons diagnosed as being allergic to ‘house dust’ are actually allergic to the dust mites.” Regular cleaning and washing of bedding and draperies can help control dust mite populations.