Do bed bugs possess the physical capabilities for jumping, similar to fleas or grasshoppers? I’m particularly interested in understanding their primary modes of locomotion. If they don’t jump, how do they move between locations, such as from furniture to humans or from room to room? Understanding their movement methods is crucial for effective prevention and control. Is there any scientific research or evidence to support whether they can jump, or is this a common misconception?

Answer

No, bed bugs cannot jump like fleas or grasshoppers.

Bed bugs are wingless insects and lack the specialized legs required for jumping. Fleas and grasshoppers have enlarged hind legs that act as springs, allowing them to propel themselves considerable distances. Bed bugs have short, stubby legs designed for crawling. Their primary mode of transportation is crawling on surfaces. They can move relatively quickly across floors, walls, and furniture, but they cannot jump or fly. They rely on crawling and being passively transported by hosts (humans and animals) or belongings to move between locations.