What Are Kissing Bugs—and Should Homeowners Be Concerned?

Kissing bugs are not the kind of pest or insect most homeowners deal with routinely, but they’re distinctive enough that learning the basics of these bugs could be worthwhile (especially if you live in areas where they’re more common or increasingly being reported).

"Kissing bugs may look like just another harmless insect, but they’re not something to ignore," says entomologist Trent Frazer. "These bugs get their name from how they often bite people near the mouth or eyes while they sleep. That alone might sound creepy enough, but the real issue is what some of them carry."

Below, a closer look at what kissing bugs are, how to identify them, where they tend to show up, and what to do if you think you’ve found one.

What Exactly Are Kissing Bugs?

Kissing bugs are nocturnal insects that can bite humans and animals, often when people are asleep. Their nickname is descriptive since they’re known for biting near the mouth or eyes, areas where skin is often exposed at night. They do not attach like ticks, and bites generally do not cause pain.

But the bite itself isn’t the only reason they’re worth noting. "Kissing bugs can spread a parasite [Trypanosoma cruzi] that causes Chagas disease—a serious illness that can lead to long-term health problems if it goes untreated," Frazer explains. "Not every kissing bug carries the parasite, but the risk is real enough that it’s worth paying attention to if you spot one."

How to Identify Kissing Bugs

Because it’s easy to confuse kissing bugs with other similarly colored insects, pay close attention to some specific identification markers. And note that there are 11 types of kissing bugs in the U.S., so they won't all look exactly alike. (You can see 10 of the species side-by-side here.)

"These insects are dark brown or black with orange or red stripes along the sides of their bodies," says Frazer. "Homeowners sometimes mistake them for boxelder bugs or assassin bugs because they all have similar coloring—but kissing bugs have that longer, pointed head and a slightly more oval body."

Kissing bugs can range in size from that of a penny to about a quarter, and you’ll more likely see them at night and in warmer climates. "These bugs are mostly found in the southern U.S., especially in areas like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico," Frazer says. "But that doesn’t mean they stop there. They’re also spreading into more states." According to a map created by Texas A&M University, kissing bugs have been found in all but 17 states in the contiguous U.S.

Around the home, they seek out warm hiding spots, such as cracks and crevices, and areas around outdoor lights. "Inside the home, they may hide behind furniture, in walls, or even in bedding if they find a way inside," Frazer warns.

What to Do If You Find a Kissing Bug

Resist the impulse to squash upon first sight. "If you do find a bug that looks like a kissing bug, don’t squash it right away," Frazer says. "Catch it in a jar or plastic bag if you can, and call a pest control professional. It’s important to have it identified properly." You can also take a photo of it, if preferred. 

"Finding one doesn’t always mean there’s an infestation," Frazer says. Still, he recommends being proactive. "If you see more than one," he adds, "or if someone in your home has unexplained bites—especially near the face—it’s a good time to call in the experts."

"Kissing bugs are more than just a nuisance," he warns. "With the risk of disease, it’s smart to take them seriously and let professionals help protect your home and family."

How to Help Keep Kissing Bugs Out

The most effective solution to kissing bugs is prevention through sealing and cleaning your home and the surrounding area. "To help keep them out, sealing up your home is key," Frazer says. Start with the basics:

• Make sure windows and doors close tightly. Any gaps should be sealed.
• Check screens for holes and promptly repair or replace them.
• Seal cracks and crevices where insects can slip in and hide.
• Tidy outdoor areas where insects and pests tend to hide, such as wood piles, leaf piles, overgrowth, or unkempt landscaping. 

Because rodents can be part of the equation, Frazer also recommends addressing them directly: “Since they often follow rodents into homes, taking care of any rodent activity on your property can help reduce the chance of kissing bugs coming in, too.”

And finally, consider your home's outdoor lighting. "Lights at night can attract them," Frazer says. If kissing bugs are common in your region, he suggests using "yellow bug lights or turning off unnecessary outdoor lighting." (You don’t need to spotlight your home for these buggers.)