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Bed bugs: distinguishing the clues

Skin marks alone cannot confirm the presence of bed bugs.

Close-up side view of an adult bed bug
Adult bed bug — identification should rely on several clues.Source: CDC PHIL, Wikimedia Commons — public domain ↗

Bed bugs

Possible signs

Live bed bugs, small dark spots, shed skins or eggs may warrant a check near resting areas.

Bed bugs

What their presence does not mean

The presence of bed bugs does not indicate poor cleanliness. They can be introduced into many different environments.

Bed bugs

Actions to avoid

Avoid moving furniture, bedding or belongings from one room to another before there is a plan. Place items that must be moved in sealed bags.

Bed bugs

What the evaluation examines

Resting areas, cracks, adjacent furniture, baseboards and other available physical signs.

This content is provided for general information. The signs described may have several causes and do not replace identification or an on-site evaluation. Use a pesticide only in accordance with its label and applicable rules.

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