Bed bugs are blood-feeding insects that require blood meals to survive and reproduce. However, they can survive for a period of time without feeding. The amount of time that bed bugs can live without blood varies depending on a few different factors, such as temperature and humidity levels.
Under optimal conditions, bed bugs can survive for up to several months without a blood meal. However, in less ideal conditions, such as in colder temperatures or low humidity environments, their survival time may be shorter.
Research has shown that bed bugs can survive for up to 5 months at 50°F (10°C) without a blood meal. At higher temperatures, bed bugs may die more quickly. For example, at temperatures of 80°F (27°C) or higher, bed bugs may only be able to survive for a few weeks without blood.
It’s worth noting that bed bugs will typically try to feed on a host as often as possible in order to ensure their survival and reproductive success. If a bed bug goes too long without feeding, it may become weakened and less able to reproduce.
It’s also important to keep in mind that while bed bugs can survive for a period of time without feeding, they will still seek out hosts when they are hungry. This means that even if you haven’t seen any bed bugs in a while, they may still be present in your home and looking for a blood meal.
If you suspect that you have a bed bug infestation in your home, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Bed bugs can reproduce quickly and their populations can grow rapidly if left unchecked. Contact a pest control professional for assistance in identifying and treating bed bug infestations.
