Bed bugs, are among the most common pests that the human population has to deal with. Around one in five households have dealt with some form of bedbug infestation, with over ninety nine percent of exterminators having a call concerning bed bugs within the average year. Our home of San Francisco is no different, as the warmer California climate provides them with ample opportunity to reproduce. In this post, we will go over everything you need to know about these bugs and what attracts bed bugs to San Francisco.
What Are the Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation in San Francisco?
If a home or somewhere where you are staying is infested by bed bugs, you may notice the following:
Bed bug skin left behind after molting or shedding.
Small, reddish brown stains or spots left behind by bed bug droppings.
The bed bugs themselves between mattress folds or bed sheets.
Itchy welts on your skin from bites.
What Are Bed Bugs Preferred Temperature and Environment?
A bed bug’s preferred habitat is that of a human environment. They enjoy small cramped spaces such as crevices in walls or under mattresses. They have a temperature range preference of between 65 degrees Fahrenheit and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Most homes can claim to be within this range. The average outdoor climate of San Francisco can also claim this honor.
Where Are Bed Bugs Most Commonly Found and How Do They Spread?
According to the California Department of Public Health, bedbugs are most commonly found within 8 feet of sleeping locations such as beds and couches.
Bed bugs are most common in buildings where there is a high turnover of guests, such as:
apartment
dorm rooms
hotels
motels
Research has shown that bed bugs are more associated with these kinds of locations, as there are new people coming into them all the time, giving them ample opportunity to feed and reproduce.Unfortunately, the high amount of public transportation, tourism and dense population in the Bay Area makes it a utopia for bed bugs to spread and reproduce.
Bed bugs can also spread through simple sitting locations, including:
buses
cruise ships
trains
San Francisco’s public transportation systems, like the rail cars, can also be included here, as there are thousands of people that get on and off these transportation systems daily, not knowing what little unwanted visitors they have clinging to them.
What Season Are Bed Bug Infestations Most Prevalent?
While bed bugs can be found any time of the year, the summer is seen as the peak of bed bug season due to increased travel during this time. Bed bugs can easily be spread from destination homes and vacation lodging back to people's homes through clothing and luggage. Bed bugs can also spread from student housing as many college students go home for summer break during this period. Increases in heat, travel and tourism help bed bugs spread to any location.
Why Bed Bugs Are So Common in San Francisco
According to a news article posted by USA today, San Francisco is in the top 25 US cities with the worst bed bug problems. San Francisco is a highly populated city, with high density, low income areas, public transportation, and is a travel destination for many. All these things make San Francisco a prime target for infestations.
What to Do If You Notice Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
If you or someone you know is experiencing a bed bug infestation, do not hesitate to give us a call here at Round the Clock Pest Control. Our bed bug heat treatment is effective and efficient, and only lasts a handful of hours, allowing you to return to your home the same day as treatment.
