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Beetle, Not Bed Bug: Identification and Reassurance

Underside of bug

Top of bug

Frequent traveler finds bug on hallway towel, hard to kill. Fears bed bug.

Expert Answer: It's a beetle, definitely not a bed bug (bed bug image). Media hype causes undue fear; bed bugs rare in homes, not a serious medical issue, and controllable. For cleaning personal items: guide.

— Jack DeAngelis

Pests: Bug in NYC Closet: Not a Bed Bug—Likely Sowbug or Carpet Beetle Larva; Tiny Brown Beetles on Windowsills: Cigarette or Drugstore Beetles from Pantry; Four Beetles in Bathroom: Carpet Beetle Species, Check Stored Foods; Bug in Central Texas Carpet: Stink Bug (Squash Bug) — Harmless Fall Invader; Unidentified Beetle Photo Submitted: More Details Needed for Accurate ID; Tiny Black Bugs on Houseplants: Immature Aphids, Not Fungus Gnats; Tiny Bug on Orchid Petal: Scale Insect Identification; Identifying and Caring for Ctenanthe 'Burle Marx'; Identifying Gardenias in a Bouquet Photo; Mystery Black Blob on Pool Wall: Bess Beetle Without Abdomen

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