Bed Bugs vs. Ticks: Identification, Habitat & Differences

Bedbugs and ticks represent two types of blood-sucking pests. Bedbugs are insects, while ticks are related to spiders and scorpions. Bedbugs and ticks feed on humans, dogs, cats and chickens. Unlike bedbugs, ticks attach themselves to their hosts.

Appearance

• Bedbugs are flat and oval-shaped. They measure about 1/4-inch long and appear reddish brown. Adult ticks are smaller than bedbugs, usually about 1/8-inch long, and have an oval-shaped shell and eight legs.

Habitat

• Ticks often thrive in wooded or bushy locations, although they are sometimes found in lawns. Bedbugs live in dark, dry places, such as beds, mattresses, furniture and behind wallpaper.

Risks

• Although bedbug bites can be annoying, bedbugs do not pose a serious public health risk. Ticks sometimes carry Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Removal

• Fumigation, insecticides and thoroughly cleaning contaminated articles removes bedbugs. Remove ticks from the skin by pulling the tick straight out with tweezers.