can bed bugs hurt dogs. g. can bed bugs hurt dogs

 
gcan bed bugs hurt dogs  Luckily, this should resolve on its own over the next 8 to 12 hours

Bed bugs are not considered to be dangerous; however, an allergic reaction to several bites may need medical attention. Clean Your Clutter, Including Your Pet’s Toys. Don’t worry if your pet eats a stink bug, they’re not poisonous or dangerous in any way. and helps spread bed bugs is only the dirty or “poor” homes get them. Now, some people. Seventy percent of all bed bug infestations are located around the bed, so that is a good place to start. They can find hiding spots in both clean and dirty environments. @oreocat123. However, bed bugs have been known to bite dogs in other areas if they are hungry enough. What are bed bugs? Bed bugs ( Cimex lectularius) are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed solely on the blood of people and animals while they sleep. The dryer is a good source of this heat. These guys are crawlers and like the easy pickings to be had from hairless human skin. This makes the. The only exception is if you live in an apartment block. Bed bugs emit unique pheromones and dogs are trained to. At higher concentrations, the smell is very unpleasant, like the odor a stink bug emits. ). Entomologists advise that isopropyl alcohol should be used in large amounts if you are to succeed in killing the bed bugs using it. This normally happens when a dog eats several June bugs and can bring forth a bit of vomiting and diarrhea. Step 2. Mop floors and wipe down. The cause will depend on the symptoms, like fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. They do,. If your pet does ingest a Boxelder. These small brown insects hide in cool, shady areas among shrubs, leaves and tress until a host (like your dog) passes by. They need to feed regularly to reproduce, lay eggs, and survive. Changing behaviour. A June bug may offer your dog a bit of protein, and a fun crunch, but they aren’t part of their normal diet. With bug bombs, your pet can only be safe when it’s properly used. [5] Since you’re going to be spraying the liquid, you don’t want the hot peppers suspended in the water. Proper usage of bug bombs largely depends on getting everyone including pets out of the treatment area. Repeat until the entire area is covered. Human itch mite. Bed bugs are reddish-brown in color, wingless, range from 1mm to 7mm (roughly the size of Lincoln’s head on a penny), and can live several months without a blood meal. Additional information can be found online at Mothballs are solid pesticides that slowly release a gas vapor to kill and repel moths, their larvae, and other insects from stored clothing and fabric. In some cases, people are bitten hundreds of times just during the night while sleeping and they do not even wake up once. Some may also be passed on from a mother dog to her puppies. This parasite can be found in cockroaches, grubs, beetles, crickets, or other bugs who eat feces. But too many June bugs could lead to an upset stomach. Of all the insects that can sting you, bumble bees are probably the least likely to do so. Bed bug bites occur most commonly on exposed skin, such as the upper body. Bedbugs tend to bite the upper parts of your body. In dogs, this can be the lining of their bed, or a small crack in their house. Bed bugs do not live outside in the grass like fleas. Boil the mixture in water. Spread the pieces you gathered in your strainer around your flower bed or garden, or any area you want your dog to stay away from. postnasal drip. Most dogs don't have an immediate reaction to bed bug bites because their immune system doesn't immediately see the bug as an invader. Dull and lethargic. Spray the cat bed and furniture like the sofa where your cat usually hangs out. You can show sensitivity in different ways when compared to other people. So while they can cause discomfort and significant mental distress, bed bugs won’t give you or your pets diseases, though in severe cases scratching can lead to secondary skin infections. Advertisement. These include your dog’s bed and probably your bed, too. Bed bug detection dogs are increasingly being regarded as the most effective way to detect bed bug infestations. However, remember that bed bugs will only bite and move on and do not live on or infest your dog. And yes, that purpose is actually good. But later in the day, they get smaller and look. It isn’t always possible to tell which bug has taken up residence in your house; some of them, like bed bugs, are tiny and quite. That’s why using peppermint will work against cockroaches. Luggage, pet carriers, and bedding can be left in the car for about 1-2 weeks after you return home. An animal like bees can hear sound the ultrasonic color that. There’s more information here on how to prevent bed bugs from. Mix peppermint with water and vinegar, and spray this solution around your home. 5 Paper Wasps In Arizona. g. Bed bugs on dogs can be detected with a careful inspection of the dog’s fur and skin. getting the smell out of the carpets will be much easier if there is not debris and dust all over them. Wash your cat's bedding, toys, and any other items in hot water, then dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. If you’re bugged by your dog’s snack habits, keep insects at bay by mowing and raking your lawn regularly to reduce leaf litter and other debris. Mites on dogs and humans are the same bugs, and they can easily spread from a pet to its owner, so dogs should be treated when symptoms first occur. The human itch mite ( Sarcoptes scabiei var. Insects with exoskeletons dehydrate when coming in contact with Diatomaceous Earth, but pets are not harmed by it. That’s incredible because even a single bed bug can be the cause for a whole new infestation. Bed Bugs ; Cockroaches ; Mice. Bed. Zevo Instant Action for Ant, Roach & Fly Multi-Insect Trigger Spray. Natural Chemistry Yard & Kennel Spray — Great for your lawn, spot treatments. Many advantages 10 come with using dogs for bed bug detection. An epi-pen may be prescribed for severe allergic reactions. Cats may receive bites on the tummy area or on the back where it is difficult for them to drive the bed bugs away. Wrong. While bed bugs can and will spread throughout your home, 70% of the population will remain close to the bed. Bed bug bites are not initially painful and can go unnoticed for hours or days. The best way to treat bed bug bites includes: Washing the bites gently with soap and water. 1. The human itch mite ( Sarcoptes scabiei var. Where Do. Now, some people. The good news is that stink bugs don’t bite. From 360 quotes ranging from $412 - $1,100. Bed bug bites occur most commonly on exposed skin, such as the upper body. Your veterinarian will conduct tests to find the specific infection. Make a simple spray by adding a few drops essential oil into a spray bottle filled with ½ cup (120 milliliters) of water. Bed bugs do not bite dogs on the nose, usually, but it doesn’t mean they cannot bite. g. Bed bugs can cause issues for your pets, your home, and your yard. Stink bugs might hurt your dog’s eyes. And it will catch the cycling of the worms through the. While it is possible for bed bugs to live in your hair, it’s unlikely. Homeowners are the intended targets for bed bugs, but unfortunately, our pets can suffer the consequences. Yes, bed bugs can bite and feed on your bird. The best way to get rid of bedbugs on your pets is to completely eradicate all bedbugs in your home. Others claim that the noise and vibrations of the raid can be harmful to their ears. Bed bug populations and infestations are increasing in the United States and internationally (3,5). Fortunately, bed bugs have not been proven to carry any disease; however, their bites can cause anemia (especially in children), itching (itching), allergic reactions, discomfort, insomnia, and stress. Vomiting. Shed exoskeletons around your pet. No – they are not. Those living in a home with a bed bug infestation can suffer from a variety of mental health problems due to their circumstances. A: Bed bugs don't live on pets or spend as much time on your pet as the more common pests (such as fleas, ticks, lice and mites), but they can bite your pets. Bed bugs can be more harmful to certain people than others, causing health concerns ranging from itchiness to allergic reaction. Turn the vacuum on high and vacuum your bedroom and closet floors. Stumbling and crossing over feet. 4. Method 1 – Using a Washing Machine. Bed bugs usually come out at night to feed, which is why you may notice your dog scratching itself more. Since these pests feed on the blood of mammals, bed bugs can bite dogs and other pets, just as they bite people. or diseases, but they can be a real pain – literally. The. Tremors and shaking. Vacuum – Most households in the US have a vacuum with an agitator brush. Allergies from bites. Those highly trained dogs can find a single bed bug in your home. Suffocation. Bed Bugs. These are helpful pointers:One of the best reasons to choose DE to treat fleas and ticks is that it is completely safe to use around—and on—dogs and cats. After all, bed bugs are biting, bloodsucking pests. Yes. $15 at Avon. While June bugs are not toxic to dogs, they can still cause stomach upset, which can be followed by vomiting and diarrhea. Had bed bugs. getting the smell out of the carpets will be much easier if there is not debris and dust all over them. June bugs are not toxic in any way and won’t hurt your dog if eaten. This parasite can be found in cockroaches, grubs, beetles, crickets, or other bugs who eat feces. While isopropyl alcohol, known as rubbing alcohol, can kill bedbugs and their eggs, it isn’t an effective way to get rid of an infestation. Be sure to use only sprays that are odorless and non-toxic. You get it from skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. Bed bugs are disgusting and frustrating pests. Bed Bug Sniffing Dogs. The most common symptom from bed bug bites is the itching, which can be painful. For the record, bed bugs have flat, oval bodies, which make them look a bit like small cockroaches or beetles — and by small we mean no bigger than 1/4 inch long. The chemicals used to kill bed bugs can cause symptoms including dizziness, difficulty breathing, seizures, loss of consciousness, eye irritation, skin irritation or rash, contact dermatitis, sweating, headache, nausea. Numerous trainers are now working with dogs to teach them to find bedbugs. If you pet is bitten, the bites will look like tiny red bumps on their belly or limbs, typically in areas with less hair. At around 1–7 mm , bed bugs are larger than lice, and a bed bug infestation can create an almond-like smell. Advantages of Bed Bug Detection Dogs. Having a birthmark. Bedbug bites are often on the upper half of your body, around the face, neck, and. No single technique can eliminate bed bugs—combinations of. While it may feel like the bug burrows deeper into your head, they are just trying to find a warm hiding spot. Cats can also get the disease by eating. The bugs don’t look for canine hosts but if the infestation reaches high levels, they might search for a secondary source of food. Bed bugs die quickly in hot temperatures, so running a cycle in the wash. USA TODAY. Overview Bedbug Enlarge image Bedbugs are small, reddish-brown blood-sucking, wingless insects. a swollen face or muzzle. Bed bugs aren't just an annoyance in hotels. Unfortunately, they feed on your blood, because. hominis) is a microscopic bug that is one of the few to actually burrow and live beneath human skin. Humans and domestic animals like dogs, cats, cattle, and horses can also be hosts. Pepper Powder. The common comparison made is that the bugs are about the size of an apple seed. They can find bugs in places humans cannot such as wall voids, crevices, and furniture gaps. In a straight line, bed bug bites occur in groups of two or three. No, bed bugs cannot hurt dogs. Close the door to the bedrooms, and don’t let your pets inside. Their bites cause skin rashes, but may also cause psychological effects and allergic reactions. Bed bugs can bite you on the legs, hands, and arms but are more likely to feed on your neck and head. The most common clinical signs associated with an insect bite reaction include: swelling and redness at the site of the bite. Although bugs can sometimes be found on cats and dogs, this situation is unusual; it is not likely that cats and dogs will introduce a bed bug infestation into a. Kissing bugs can enter houses, hunting. Bed bugs don't live on pets, although they might hitch a ride or, on rare occasions, have a nibble. While it’s considered normally safe in mammals, oral ingestion by dogs can cause vomiting and gagging. To kill bed bugs with heat, they have to be exposed to temperatures well above 120 degrees Fahrenheit for multiple hours. Bed bug bites are not initially painful and can go unnoticed for hours or days. With 600 to 1,000 hours of comprehensive training, our bed bug dogs are the finest in the. Mix together. Bed bug bites typically present as small, itchy, red bumps that are clustered in zig-zag patterns of three or more. But like just about any other bug killer on the market, there will no doubt be questions about its safety of use around kids and pets. Entomologists advise that isopropyl alcohol should be used in large amounts if you are to succeed in killing the bed bugs using it. You can use 91% alcohol-based sprays, rubbing alcohol and 70% isopropyl alcohol to kill bed bugs. Image Credit: Steve Buissinne, Pixabay. The name has been applied to members of the family Cimicidae (e. In New York City alone there were 9,233 complaints about bed bugs in 2013. Used properly, though, boric acid is considered safe. Ugh, bed bugs. Ugh, bed bugs. The dog’s feeding bowl is a very attractive environment for the earwigs. This worm is a parasite that spreads through deer-fly bites. A tendency to eat bugs is one good reason to keep your dog on parasite prevention year-round. Fast and Efficient. For centuries the following signs of witchcraft made people jump to conclusions that one is a witch: Having your milk go bad frequently. Bed bugs and the evidence of them are typically easier to spot or rule out. Be careful not to do it very quickly or bed bugs will be disturbed. Loss of alertness (stupor), from the blood oxygen level being out of balance. Dogs eat bugs, and for the most part, it's not a problem. Some people have no reaction to bedbug bites, while. In children, the most common problem is anxiety. Bed bug dogs like Beagles can achieve up to 98% accuracy, whether searching for live bed bugs, droppings, eggs, or other signs of infestation. coughing. Thank you for understanding. Use a bed bug spray to get rid not only of bugs but the eggs and nymphs as well. No, it doesn’t hurt you during the bite because of saliva injected by a bed bug. You can buy ozone generators from various companies for under 100 dollars and just switch them around each room. The bed bugs are killed by the high temperature of steam. The effectiveness of these remedies varies. Technically, yes. Gagging. Bed bugs tend to enter the home on luggage, through shared bedding, or on used furniture. Ants can bite and hurt dogs and cats, causing irritation. To learn more. It is a tiny amount for the price. You can save yourself a lot of time and effort by identifying the pest of your pets. A paste can be made out of the powdered oatmeal and applied to the areas affected. Do flea collars work for bed bugs or ear mites?Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Bed bugs prefer human blood but they can also bite animals such as rodents, dogs, cats and even birds. And, unfortunately, for your furry friends like cats and dogs, bed bugs can bite them as well. Wash and dry your bedding on hot. Bed bugs prefer skin with easily accessible blood vessels. Dogs have widely been used for their keen sense of smell to detect a variety of substances from drugs to mold. 5. Bites from a ladybug often result in a raised red bump that may hurt for a few days. Blog. Other bugs that dogs can safely ingest are: June bugs, Stink bugs, Asian lady beetle, and. Fortunately, bed bug bites don’t usually present a serious threat to your health. However, some people are allergic to the compounds released by the stink bug. Generally, bed bugs prefer a less warm climate, so they won’t keep living on your head. To prevent infestations, keep your. Bed bug detection dogs have been trained to find and ‘alert’ on the specific smells that bed bugs make. Don’t forget the couch, chairs, plush dog toys, and curtains, if they touch the floor. I think once the dog is free, my cure will come. Aside from the actual bed bug bites, check for spotting around your pet’s bedding. They infect your dog with one or multiple worms that live in your pets’ stomach. Get started Or learn more about bed bugs Can bed bugs bite your dog? Bed bugs prefer to feed on humans, but they'll bite just about any animal. This powdery, pet-safe pest control substance is made from fossils called diatoms. It can be mistaken for heatstroke or heat exhaustion with the following symptoms: Headache, fatigue, dizziness. The only solutions is to exterminate all the bed bugs in the home. In cold, it takes 4 days at 0°F (-17. These have been mentioned earlier, including chills, swelling, and pain around the bite area (s). Whether is a cat or a dog, you better know that there are bugs to watch out for if you have pets. Still, as with virtually any insect, some people are. Bed bugs can bite animals just as they bite us. The active ingredient for this inspect spray is Bifenthrin, which can cause dogs to drool excessively, gag, or even vomit. This is the smell that bed bugs hate the most. Paris is riddled with bedbugs, according to dozens of videos online that show the critters looking for their next host on buses, trains, hotels and more. They are hidden in the environment and come out only at night to feed. Vinegar can be used for getting rid of bed bugs as well as treating bed bug bites. Burke recommends this bug guard because it doesn’t contain any DEET — and works wonders for protecting dogs from mosquitoes and other bugs. It’s only after clearing the area that the product should be used. Remember, this mixture will not kill cockroaches. Mix one tablespoon of cayenne powder with oregano and some grated ginger. Dogs were trained to differentiate between bed bugs and other household pests (e. Poisonous spider bites can cause major illness or even death. Compare ratings & reviews on participating partner sites. ) Wash your dog’s bedding. Frequently Asked QuestionsBefore you start frantically using bed bug dog shampoo or bed bug spray safe for pets, you want to make sure that it is bed bugs your dog is suffering from and not a similar pest, fleas. First of all, you will still have this powder all around the house when you are done. In many cases, the pesticides used to control insect problems are more. Another advantage of using dogs for bed bug detection is it’s. It can have the same effect on your dog’s meals and treats. This ingredient is found in products like Amdro, ant bait granules for outdoor use. In fact, the majority of the bugs are non-toxic, so they won’t harm them. Distemper and rabies affect your dog by delivering viruses to the brain, which can lead to paralysis. They bite and cause sores to anyone who gets near them; dogs included. A dog could theoretically bring a few bed bugs into a house and start an infestation. Can bed bugs hurt your pet? Does your dog or cat run the risk of bringing them into the home? Our experts are here with the facts! Skip to content. Thankfully, these bugs have an extremely foul taste, so most animals will avoid eating large quantities (though cats tend to be more likely to snack on these bugs than dogs). They are mostly found near your bed or in the mattress. Mix one tablespoon of cayenne powder with oregano and some grated ginger. Spraying the oil around your bed or even applying some skin products that contain lavender before you go to bed chases the bed bugs away. Some dogs are allergic to bee stings. red, itchy skin. One or multiple tiny, often microscopic, water mite larvae attach themselves to mosquitoes and other water bugs. Your dog could end up with some skin issues if bed bugs become a problem. lectularius L. Dogs are also a safer alternative to pesticide use. However, under a stereoscope (magnification between 20x and 50x), one distinguishing feature is that the fringe hairs on the pronotum (the upper covering of the thorax) of the bat bug are as long or longer than the width of the eye, but are shorter in the bed bug. If your dog just eats one or two, they. Follow These 5 Steps to Get Rid of Bed Bugs: 1. Bed bugs are closely associated with people and our belongings. Humans can hear sounds between 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz with no color. Symptoms of bedbug bites are similar to symptoms of other insect bites and rashes. 3. Editorial Contributors. Do not use a vacuum cleaner to clean the bedding. If your dog starts to develop welts or red lesions on their skin, that's also a good indicator that some kind of bug is eating them up. In Summary. Use no more than one fogger per room, since a typical 6 oz. Bat bugs are closely related to bed bugs, and are so similar in appearance that they are often. The active ingredient for this inspect spray is Bifenthrin, which can cause dogs to drool excessively, gag, or even vomit. Specific species of canines can contain over three hundred million receptors in their noses. and helps spread bed bugs is only the dirty or “poor” homes get them. Quick Tip If your dog has redness or swelling around the bite site, make an appointment with your veterinarian to get it checked out. These pesky pests can be a real nightmare, causing insomnia, anxiety, and even skin irritations. While they are commonly associated with pets, such as dogs and cats, they can also infest human hair, including pubic hair. Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. and helps spread bed bugs is only the dirty or “poor” homes get them. Speed is one of the biggest advantages of canine bed bug inspections. While it may feel like the bug burrows deeper into your head, they are just trying to find a warm hiding spot. Dogs can, in theory, carry bed bugs and introduce them into their home, but they’re more likely to be introduced through another source. Cover any carpeted areas 3-5 times to clean them thoroughly. 1 Bites From The Arizona Brown Spider And The Black Widow. You may be asking yourself, “Can cats carry bed bugs?”. Tremor, sweating, weakness, chills, nausea, vomiting, and headache are other symptoms. Bed bug dogs like Beagles can achieve up to 98% accuracy, whether searching for live bed bugs, droppings, eggs, or other signs of infestation. Bed bugs are very tiny, and they often go unnoticed by cats. However, they will not become infested with them. 3. In those cases, you may see swelling, redness, hives, vomiting, diarrhea, stumbling or even a collapse. Water your lawn. Perhaps one of your neighbors has a bed bug problem that’s exacerbated by their pet dog, which the bed bugs love to feed on. McDonald pest control offers comprehensive bed bug heat treatment and control for residential and commercial properties. 1 11 Bugs That Bite In Arizona. 2. runny or stuffy nose. As you can see in the pictures, Hot Shot Bedbug & Flea spray kills on contact and leaves no oily residue or film. They may make your pet sick to their stomach, or cause diarrhea in severe cases, but unless your pet. Bed bugs are very tiny, and they often go unnoticed by cats. Mix peppermint with water and vinegar, and spray this solution around your home. Use a thin hose attachment to vacuum the cracks in your walls, baseboard, drapes, and bed frame. Bug bombs, aka foggers, or other bug sprays can be used safely in the house if. Paris is riddled with bedbugs, according to dozens of videos online that show the critters looking for their next host on buses, trains, hotels and more. g. Bed bugs ( Cimex lectularius) are parasites that feed on humans, using their blood to grow and reproduce. Bites from bed bugs can be found anywhere on the body. It is the low pH in. Cats love to play with their prey, and sometimes a bed bug may be squashed and killed during this kind of play, but it’s usually never done on purpose. Many common insects are harmless to cats, but some can be poisonous or cause injury. Here is extra June bug information, along with insects that your dog should avoid. They are blood-suckers. They are docile enough that Langellotto, the horticulturist, refers to them as the panda bears of the. If you have a dog who likes to munch on whatever can be found on the ground, you need to prepare to stop them from devouring this plentiful treat. Bed bugs are attracted to warmth and darkness, so they are more likely to bite on the body or neck. In rare instances, an earwig pinch can break the skin. To make the conditions unfavorable for their feeding, you can irrigate the lawn when it gets hot and dry. Share. Dogs Can Sniff Out Bed Bugs Bedbugs have a distinctive odor. “Will bed bug spray hurt my cat?” In this article, we will explore the risks and precautions associated with using bed bug spray around cats, and help you make the best decision. Bed bugs are primarily attracted to carbon dioxide and warmth, which. There are no veterinarian prescribed bed bug products and no methods that help to prevent bed bug bites on cats and dogs. One to two inches of water a. One of the most loathsome parasites, tapeworms make themselves at home in the intestines of dogs, cats, and humans. Their bites are red and itchy. Are Earwigs Harmful to Cats and Dogs. An ultrasonic device emits waves that are above that a human cannot imagine. If these spots are found, it can indicate an infestation. Mental Health. Bed bugs feed on blood by inserting fine stylets from their beak directly into the skin inCan Dogs Get Bed Bugs? Bed bugs ( Cimex lectularius) are making a powerful, if undesirable, comeback after becoming scarce due to pesticide use in the 1950s. If you notice your pet itch, bite, or show discomfort, it’s smart to look for the signs of. Indigestion. Thankfully, these bugs have an extremely foul taste, so most animals will avoid eating large quantities (though cats tend to be more likely to snack on these bugs than dogs). 8°C) to kill all the bed bugs and less than 24 hours to kill the bed bugs with dry ice. Bat bugs are closely related to bed bugs, and are so similar in appearance that they are often. Bug bites are usually harmless and easy to treat, but it helps to know exactly what bit you. #8. Boil the mixture in water. Even the cleanest homes in America can harbor bed bugs; all they need to thrive is blood and hiding spots. All Parts of The Onion Are Poisonous For Dogs. gastrointestinal issues. So when people are saying that they’re seeing them on trains and stuff like that, the bedbugs will latch on and then hitchhike with. Dogs were trained to detect bed bugs by odor, rather than sight, which helped them to be more accurate. , organophosphate-containing dips labeled for dogs only, inappropriately applied to cats); or the intentional. Bedbugs smell like wet, moldy clothes or shoes. Thus, the pets most at risk of bed bug problems are animals that sleep or lay on your bed for extended periods. Give us a call at 215. Lavender oil smell. Allergies. That’s why many pet owners are asking the question, “Will bed bug spray hurt my cat?” Black widow spiders are poisonous to cats. This means there is a small chance of your dog get bitten regardless of the breed . Mop floors and wipe down. They also don’t harm people or pets, nor do they spread disease. In fact, according. 1:25. Dogs can safely eat one or two June. Because bed bug sprays are pesticides, they can cause severe harm to your cat if they aren’t used safely. If you’re bugged by your dog’s snack habits, keep insects at bay by mowing and raking your lawn regularly to reduce leaf litter and other debris. Plus, even if not eaten, it’s not like the stink bug will hurt your dog or puppy. An experienced bed bug sniffing dog (with a skilled handler) can cover an entire apartment in a matter of minutes when a visual inspection might take hours. Head Lice. A: Bed bug bites itch, even for our canine friends. Global diversification increases the distribution of many types of microorganisms and pests. One of the main benefits of cinnamon is its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to either slow down or stop the growth of bacteria. The bite marks can appear one day after contact with bed bugs, or can take up to 14 days to show. Bite reactions vary from no reaction to mild (a red spot) to severe (rash or hives). “In most cases, your dog will be fine. 0:00. Bedbugs a member of the insect family Cimicidae are small, semi-nocturnal, blood-sucking parasitic insects that feed primarily on human blood.