We might be hundreds of times larger than the vast majority of insects, but that fact does nothing to comfort those who have recently discovered an infestation in their home or business. This is why so many people turn to us for bedbugs and flea pest control.
Bedbugs and fleas in particular can pose a serious disturbance to your day-to-day life, proving both expensive and time-consuming to eradicate. However, before you can even start the process, you need to determine which pest now calls your property home.
At Jones Bros Pest Control, Inc., our pest control professionals can diagnose your problem. Once we know what type of pest we’re dealing with, we can determine the best course of action. Outlined below are some ways to differentiate between bedbugs and fleas.
What Do Bedbugs and Fleas Look Like?
If you catch a glimpse of the type of bug involved in your infestation, note its physical appearance. This can help you determine your pest control problem.
Bedbugs
Bedbugs are typically flat, wide, and brown in color, though bedbugs will turn reddish-brown after consuming their favorite food, blood. Fully mature bedbugs are about 3/16 of an inch long. Bedbugs begin as eggs, then hatch into nymphs that grow in size and become adults. Nymphs look similar to adult bedbugs but are smaller and paler in color. Bedbugs can be found hiding in the seams of mattresses and cracks and crevices typically surrounding the bed and sleeping area. They can also be found anywhere people spend time, like couches and recliners.
Fleas
These small insects average about 1/16 of an inch long. Fleas go through a complete metamorphosis, from eggs to larvae to pupae then adults. You may find signs of them during any of these stages. Eggs are dropped onto the floor or areas where pets bed down, and pupae can also be found there. Adult fleas will spend time on a host, like a dog or a cat, but will also drop off to seek other prey, like people. They can be found anywhere food is available, from couches to carpeted areas pets and people spent time.
Flea Bites vs. Bedbug Bites: What’s the Difference?
Both bedbugs and adult fleas thrive on blood, but there are stark differences between their bites. While fleas typically focus on the lower body, bedbug bites can be found anywhere.
Flea bites can sometimes itch almost immediately, but some people have little or no reaction to bedbug bites.
How Can You Prevent Flea or Bedbug Infestations?
The best way to handle a bug infestation is to prevent one from getting out of hand. We understand that this is easier said than done.
For fleas, you can help prevent infestations by regularly vacuuming carpets, floors, and furniture. You should also wash affected bedding, pet bedding, and clothing in hot water. If you have a dog or cat, be sure it is treated with the most currently available flea medication from your veterinarian. This will go a long way in helping prevent flea problems.
For bedbugs, you can avoid a bedbug infestation by examining for bedbugs when you stay in a foreign bed. This includes checking the mattress seams and headboard. You should also closely check any furniture that comes into your home.
How Can You Keep Pesky Fleas and Bedbugs at Bay?
Don’t wait to speak to a pest control company if you believe your home or business is affected by a flea or bedbug infestation. Both fleas and bedbugs can reproduce quickly. Unfortunately, fleas and bedbugs are difficult to exterminate alone. Specialized knowledge, equipment, and methods are generally needed for complete flea pest control and bedbug eradication.
Contact an Experienced Local Pest Control Team
Are you struggling with a bedbug or flea infestation in your home or business? At Jones Bros Pest Control, Inc., we have been protecting health and property since 1980.
For assistance, give our experienced Sacramento flea pest control and bed bug exterminators a call at 916-852-8800. You can also contact us online through our form.
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