The notoriety of bed bugs shows that vampires are not the only popular bloodsuckers in society. Scientifically known as Cimex lectularius, bed bugs are tiny, brownish flat-like insects that operate mostly during nighttime. During the day bed bugs prefer to situate themselves in areas people normally sleep on. Their small bodies enable them to fit in the narrowest of spaces, especially those related with headboards, box springs and mattresses. Unlike ants or bees, bed bugs do not congregate in a single area.

The problems on bed bugs are even documented in writings about medieval Europe and classical Greek during the time of Aristotle. Bed bugs were already known to feast on wild hosts mainly birds and bats.

Bed bugs were a big problem especially before World War II due to the poor focus on cleanliness and proper hygiene. However, the bugs nearly vanished in the 1940s and 1950s because of the widespread use of various pesticides. However, less effective pesticides and reforms in pest control methods enabled these creatures to make a comeback and again become a pest in society.[! size :Small!]