Anna Berry, BCE
Pelsis
Although bed bugs and bat bugs look physically similar, sometimes there are clues that point to their different identities.
Two of the biggest clues are:
- Location. While bed bugs are associated with areas humans rest, bat bugs are associated with areas where bats rest. If we find them in an unusual place, such as an attic, consider bat bugs.
- Population. There are rarely people in the areas in which bat bugs are found.
If we incorrectly assume bed bugs, the control strategies associated with them may not be as effective as those targeting bat bugs, which typically is simply bat removal and exclusion. So as always, get a proper identification, particularly if your efforts are not showing much impact.
About the Author
Iversen is a technical director at B&G Equipment. Previously, she worked as training manager for McCloud Pest Management Solutions, South Elgin, Ill. She is a Board Certified Entomologist, ServSafe certified and instructor and proctor for the National Restaurant Association and is certified in HACCP. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Oregon and a master’s degree in grain science from Kansas State University.
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