If you wake up with itchy bites or notice small insects in your bed, you may wonder if you have fleas or bed bugs. These two pests can be difficult to differentiate, as they are similar in size and both feed on blood. However, a few key differences can help you determine which pest you are dealing with.
Knowing the difference between bed bugs and fleas is important because the two pests have different characteristics and behaviours. And they require different control and elimination methods. Maitland Pest Exterminators can help you identify the pest and provide effective treatments to get rid of them.
Is There a Difference?
One of the main differences between fleas and bed bugs is the environment in which they are commonly found. Fleas are most commonly found on pets, such as cats and dogs, and can be transmitted to humans through contact with infested animals. They are also found in areas where pets spend time, such as in yards and on furniture.
On the other hand, bed bugs are found in beds and other furniture and are typically spread through contact with infested objects. They can be found in hotels, apartments, and homes, and are often brought into a home unknowingly through the use of secondhand furniture or luggage.
Another difference is the insects’ appearance. Fleas are small, wingless insects that are reddish-brown in colour. They are flattened from side to side and have long, powerful legs that allow them to jump great distances. Bed bugs are also small, wingless insects, but they are oval-shaped and have a reddish-brown colour. They do not have long legs and do not jump.
How to Tell The Difference Between Fleas and Bed Bugs
If you are unsure whether you have fleas or bed bugs, there are a few tips you can use to help identify the pest you are dealing with.
Size: Both fleas and bed bugs are small, wingless insects, but they differ in size. Fleas are typically smaller than bed bugs, with adult fleas measuring about 1-3mm in length. Bed bugs are slightly larger, with adults measuring about 4-5mm in length.
Shape: Fleas are flattened from side to side and have a narrow, elongated appearance. They have a narrow head and a long, segmented body. Bed bugs are oval-shaped with a more rounded appearance. They have a larger head and a shorter, rounded body.
Colour: Both fleas and bed bugs are reddish-brown in colour, but the shade may vary slightly. Fleas may be a darker, reddish-brown colour, while bed bugs may be a lighter, yellowish-brown colour.
Habits: Fleas are most commonly found on pets and in areas where pets spend time, such as in yards and on furniture. They are attracted to warm bodies and are known to bite humans. Bed bugs are found in beds and other furniture, and are typically spread through contact with infested objects. They are attracted to warm bodies and are known to bite humans while they sleep.
Bites: Both fleas and bed bugs can cause itchy bites on the skin, but the appearance of the bites may differ. You’ll typically find flea bites on the lower legs and ankles. These bites are characterised by small, red bumps surrounded by a halo of redness. In contrast, bed bug bites typically appear on the upper body as small, red, raised bumps in a straight line or cluster.
How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs and Fleas
If you suspect that you have an infestation of pests in your home, it is important to take action to control and eliminate the problem as soon as possible. Maitland Pest Exterminators can assist with this process by providing a range of professional pest control services. Our team of experienced professionals can identify the source of the infestation and develop an effective treatment plan to get rid of these pests.
Maitland Pest Exterminators employs a range of professional pest control techniques to get rid of fleas and bed bugs. This may include the use of insecticides to kill the pests, as well as the removal of infested objects and the sealing of entry points to prevent future infestations.
Our team of pest control experts will work with you to identify the source of the infestation and develop a customised treatment plan to suit your specific needs. We will take the time to thoroughly inspect your home and identify areas harbouring pests. Plus, we’ll also provide recommendations for eliminating the problem and preventing future infestations.
If you are struggling with an infestation of fleas or bed bugs in Maitland, don’t hesitate to reach out to Maitland Pest Exterminators for assistance.
