Uncovering 60,000 Years of History: Humanity’s Long-Lasting Battle with the First Urban Pest

As the saying goes, “Don’t let the bed bugs bite.” But these tiny pests have been a part of our lives for a very long time—about 60,000 years, according to a recent study. That’s right; they might be the first true urban pests.

Researchers from Virginia Tech discovered that bed bugs likely developed alongside humans. Their study, published in the journal Biology Letters, suggests that as cities grew, so did the bed bug population. Genetic analysis shows that both bat-related bed bugs and those that feed on humans declined until the last ice age, about 20,000 years ago. After that, the two groups took different paths.

Lindsay Miles, the study’s lead author, pointed out that the human-associated bed bug population rebounded as humans began building large settlements. Around 12,000 years ago, when cities like Mesopotamia were emerging, bed bugs made a comeback, outnumbering other domestic pests like rats and cockroaches.

Interestingly, the bat bed bug species dwindled during this time. The researchers found compelling evidence that the rise in human bed bugs tracked closely with human migration into these early urban areas. Warren Booth, an urban entomology expert and author of the study, explained, “Bed bugs were living in caves with humans, and when people moved out, they took some with them.”

The study also examined the “effective population size,” which tells us how many individuals contribute to the next generation. This information provides insights into the past of these pests and their relationship with humans.

The earliest human civilizations, forming around 10,000 years ago, created perfect conditions for pests. This research raises intriguing questions about the relationships between humans and other pests over time.

In modern times, social media has sparked conversations about this topic. Many people share tips on how to deal with bed bugs, often posting horror stories. Recent surveys show that a significant number of households have reported dealing with infestations, highlighting the ongoing relevance of this issue.

To deepen our understanding, consider this: a 2020 report by the National Pest Management Association found that 97% of pest control professionals encountered bed bugs, marking a noticeable rise in infestations over the last decade. This data indicates that despite advancements in sanitation and pest control, bed bugs remain a persistent problem.

As cities continue to grow and change, we may find that our relationship with these pests evolves as well. Understanding this history can help us better address current issues, making the study of bed bugs not just a look into the past but a guide for the future.



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