What is one of the key symptoms of bed bug infestation?

One of the key symptoms of a bed bug infestation is visible droppings. Bed bugs excrete small, dark droppings, which can be found on bedding, mattresses, or nearby surfaces. These droppings are composed of digested blood and can appear as dark spots or stains. Detecting these droppings is an important part of identifying a bed bug problem, as they serve as a clear marker of their presence.

In contrast, while strange noises at night might be associated with other pests, bed bugs are relatively silent and do not create notable sounds that would alert someone to their presence. Unusual pet behavior is also not a direct indicator of bed bugs since pets typically do not interact with or show signs related to these insects in the way humans would. Additionally, brightly colored exoskeletons do not apply to bed bugs; they are not known for vibrant colors, and their shed skins can be translucent or brown, rather than brightly colored, making them less conspicuous in the environment. Thus, the presence of visible droppings is a strong indicator of bed bug activity, making it a reliable symptom for identification.