In an article for the Poultry Site, Chris Wright highlights the growing threat that bed bugs pose to both poultry breeders and workers within the industry. Known for their resilience and rapid reproduction, bed bugs have seen a significant increase in infestations across the U.S., affecting all 50 states.

Wright details findings from a comprehensive study led by Rocio Crespo and colleagues at North Carolina State University and the University of Georgia, presented at the 2025 International Poultry Scientific Forum. 

The research emphasizes that poultry houses, particularly those that accommodate long-lived birds such as breeders and layers, are becoming increasingly susceptible to severe bed bug infestations. These infestations are especially challenging to control due to their rapid reproduction and some degree of insecticide resistance. This resistance underscores the importance of pest control operators having a comprehensive range of tools available so that alternative treatments can be effectively implemented when resistance occurs.

This growing threat highlights the crucial role that pest control operators play in safeguarding our food supply and protecting those who work in the poultry industry. Access to effective pest management tools is not just beneficial but essential for preventing these infestations, protecting public health, and maintaining a stable food production system.

As Wright stresses, proactively addressing bed bug infestations is necessary to ensure the continued safety, productivity, and economic viability of the poultry industry.