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Quick, low-risk steps

  1. Capture the insect without crushing it, using a piece of paper or container.
  2. Take a clear, close-up photo with a coin or ruler for scale.
  3. Note the exact location, date, and time of the sighting.
  4. Check for other signs: shed skins, fecal spots, or eggs in mattress seams and furniture joints.
  5. Contact a pest management professional for identification.

Carpet Beetles

Carpet beetle adults are small, oval, and often mottled with brown, black, and white scales. They are sometimes found near windows or on fabrics. Unlike bed bugs, they can fly and do not feed on blood.

Carpet beetle larvae are elongated and covered in bristly hairs. They feed on natural fibers, pet hair, and dead insects. Finding larvae in closets or under furniture is more common than finding adults.

  • Adults are rounder and more colorful than bed bugs.
  • Larvae look like tiny, hairy caterpillars.
  • They do not bite, but larval hairs can cause skin irritation.
  • Check wool clothing, rugs, and stored fabrics for damage.
  • Vacuuming and cleaning can reduce their numbers.

Fleas

Fleas are small, dark, and flattened side-to-side, with strong jumping legs. They are often brought indoors by pets. Flea bites are usually clustered on ankles and lower legs.

Unlike bed bugs, fleas can jump long distances and are rarely found in mattress seams. You may see flea dirt (digested blood) in pet bedding or carpets.

  • Fleas are narrower and more laterally compressed than bed bugs.
  • They jump when disturbed; bed bugs crawl.
  • Check pets for scratching and examine their fur.
  • Wash pet bedding in hot water and vacuum thoroughly.
  • A veterinarian can recommend flea control products.

Booklice

Booklice are tiny, soft-bodied insects often found in damp areas. They are translucent to light brown and have a large head relative to their body. They feed on mold and fungi.

Booklice do not bite humans and are not blood feeders. They are commonly found in old books, wallpaper, or humid storage areas.

  • Much smaller than bed bugs, often under 1/16 inch.
  • They have long, threadlike antennae.
  • They thrive in high humidity; reducing moisture helps control them.
  • Look for them near moldy books or damp paper.
  • They are harmless but indicate a moisture problem.

Bat Bugs and Swallow Bugs

Bat bugs and swallow bugs are close relatives of bed bugs and look nearly identical. They primarily feed on bats or birds but may bite humans if their primary host is gone.

These insects are usually found in attics, chimneys, or wall voids where bats or birds nest. Professional identification under a microscope is often needed to distinguish them from bed bugs.

  • They are almost indistinguishable from bed bugs without magnification.
  • Presence suggests bats or birds are nesting in the structure.
  • Removing the animal hosts and sealing entry points is essential.
  • Do not treat for bed bugs until the species is confirmed.
  • A professional can inspect for animal nests and identify the insect.

Take this with you

Evidence and scope checklist

  • Clear photo or specimen collected for professional examination.
  • Location and date of each sighting recorded.
  • Other signs (fecal spots, shed skins, eggs) checked in sleeping areas.
  • Pets examined for fleas or signs of irritation.
  • Humidity and moisture sources evaluated for booklice.
  • Attic and chimney inspected for bird or bat nests if bat bugs are suspected.
  • No pesticides applied before professional identification.
  • Professional identification obtained before any treatment plan.
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Common questions

What homeowners ask next

Can I identify a bed bug from a photo?

A clear photo can help a professional narrow down possibilities, but many insects look similar. Physical examination under magnification is often needed for a definitive identification.

What should I do if I find an insect but no other signs?

Capture the insect and note where you found it. Monitor the area for additional signs like fecal spots or shed skins. A single insect may be a stray, but repeated sightings warrant professional inspection.

Are there any insects that look like bed bugs but fly?

Yes, carpet beetles and some other beetles can fly. Bed bugs do not have wings and cannot fly. If you see a flying insect, it is not a bed bug.

Evidence

Sources used for this guide

Research checked July 31, 2026

Optional next step

Need an on-site professional?

Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.

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We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.