Which of the following pests leaves blood stains and fecal smears on bedding?

The common bed bug is known for leaving blood stains and fecal smears on bedding as part of its biology and behavior. Bed bugs typically feed on the blood of their hosts during the night, and once they have consumed their meal, they may leave behind small blood spots on sheets and mattresses. Their fecal matter, which appears as dark, often streaky smears, can also be found in and around their hiding places, including bedding. This characteristic staining is a key indicator of a bed bug infestation, making it an important detail for pest control professionals to recognize during inspections.

In contrast, the other options do not exhibit this specific behavior. The American dog tick can cause bites but does not leave blood stains or fecal smears on bedding. Head lice primarily reside on the scalp and do not leave stains in bedding. Similarly, springtails are non-parasitic soil-dwelling organisms that do not leave blood or fecal smears in sleeping areas. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in pest control to identify infestations accurately and implement the appropriate management strategies.