Identifying 10 Common Bug Bites

Dealing with bug bites is never pleasant, regardless of the type. However, knowing how to identify various bug bites can be crucial, especially for those who have allergies. Keep this guide to 10 common bug bites handy to be prepared for potentially dangerous situations:

Mosquito Mosquito bites can appear as either small circles or larger, elongated shapes, depending on how long the mosquito fed. They are known for their intense itchiness, which worsens with scratching.

Flea Flea bites are recognizable by their multiple bites in the same area. They are small, hard, red, and extremely itchy.

Lice Bites from head lice are similar to flea bites but are typically found on the head, back of the neck, and behind the ears.

Bedbug Bedbug bites resemble mosquito bites but are usually redder, itchier, and arranged in a zig-zag pattern. If you suspect a bedbug infestation, contact an exterminator to address the problem effectively.

Tick Tick bites are marked by a red ring around a central dark red or black dot. It’s crucial to remove the tick correctly—using Vaseline or rubbing alcohol to suffocate it before pulling it out with tweezers. Consider saving the tick in an airtight container and having it tested for diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Wasp Wasp stings can look similar to mosquito bites but often have a distinct mark in the center. They can be both itchy and painful, with the affected area becoming red and swollen.

Hornet Hornet stings are similar to wasp stings but can be more intense and painful. The reaction usually includes redness and swelling.

Bee Honey bee stings are less common than those of wasps or hornets, but when they do occur, the bee leaves its stinger behind. Remove the stinger with tweezers and clean the area with disinfectant.

Red Ant Red ant bites, also known as fire ant bites, often resemble flea bites but are immediately painful rather than just itchy.

Spider Spider bites vary based on the spider species but generally appear hard and red. They can be itchy and painful, and you might see two small puncture marks. Learn more about different spider bites and when to seek medical advice.