Pest Library
Bat Bug
Bat bugs are close relatives of bed bugs and look nearly identical to the naked eye. The difference matters because bat bugs come from a bat or bird roost in an attic, chimney or wall void, and treating bedrooms alone will not stop them.
Profile
- Scientific name
- Cimex adjunctus
- Identification
- Distinguished from bed bugs under magnification by longer hairs on the shield behind the head. Context is the practical clue: activity centered near an attic, chimney or known roost.
- Typical size
- Adults about 1/4 inch (4-5 mm).
- Behavior
- Feeds on roosting bats or birds and wanders into living space when the host animals leave or are excluded.
- Habitat
- Attics, soffits, chimneys and wall voids used by bats or birds.
- Diet
- Blood of bats and birds; will bite people opportunistically.
- Lifecycle
- Similar staged development to bed bugs, tied to host availability.
- Why it matters
- Bites are a nuisance. The underlying issue is a wildlife roost, which carries its own concerns and is regulated for bats.
- DIY considerations
- Treating a bedroom does nothing if the host roost remains. Bats are protected and cannot simply be removed at any time of year.
- Professional considerations
- Bed Bugs & Beyond does not perform bat removal. This profile exists to help you and any professional you hire identify the insect correctly before a bed bug treatment plan is chosen.
Signs of activity
- Bed-bug-like insects found in upper rooms rather than in beds
- Bat or bird activity, staining or guano in the attic
- Insects appearing after wildlife left or was removed
- No fecal specking or eggs found on mattresses or box springs
Prevention
- Screen attic, gable and chimney openings before roosting season
- Have a suspected bat roost evaluated by a qualified wildlife professional
- Keep attic access sealed from living space
Sources
Related information
Seeing bat bug at your property?
Book online or request service through our secure customer portal. Tell us what you are seeing and where the property is located.