Kissing Bugs in Texas

Kissing bugs (triatomines) are blood-feeding insects found across much of Texas and the southern U.S. They matter because a portion can carry Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas disease. Most encounters don’t lead to illness, but smart prevention keeps families and pets safer.

Why Are They Called Kissing Bugs?

The nickname comes from their tendency to feed at night on exposed skin—historically noted around the mouth and eyes—though they can bite anywhere they can reach. They’re nocturnal, drawn to sleeping hosts, and take a quick meal before hiding again.

Where Are Kissing Bugs Found in the U.S?

Triatomines occur mainly in the southern half of the country and have been documented in at least 30+ states, including widespread records in Texas. Outdoors, they shelter near wildlife and pets (woodpiles, rock piles, under porches, kennels); indoors, they may slip in through gaps and hide in cracks.

When Are Kissing Bugs Most Active in Texas?

Activity peaks in warm months, especially late spring through early fall. They’re primarily nocturnal and often attracted to porch and yard lights, which is why they appear around doors and windows after dusk.

Can Kissing Bugs Fly?

Yes. Adults have wings and can fly, which helps them reach homes—particularly if lights are on. Turning off unnecessary outdoor lights (when safe) or switching to less-attractive lighting can reduce fly-ins.

Do Kissing Bugs Bite?

They feed on blood from people and animals. Bites typically occur at night while hosts are sleeping. The bite itself is often painless, which is why many people don’t notice until later.

What Do Kissing Bug Bites Look Like?

Reactions vary. Many bites leave small, itchy, swollen spots; some people develop larger local swelling. In rare cases of infection at the entry site, a chagoma (localized inflammation) or Romaña’s sign (swollen eyelid when the conjunctiva is inoculated) can appear. If you develop concerning symptoms, contact a clinician.

Are Kissing Bugs dangerous

Most bites resolve like other insect bites. The danger is the small chance of exposure to T. cruzi and the potential for long-term heart or digestive problems if Chagas disease goes untreated. Seek medical advice if you have symptoms after a suspected exposure or if you’re concerned about possible contact with bug feces.

Can Kissing Bugs Give You a Disease?

They can transmit the parasite that causes Chagas disease, but not by the bite itself. Transmission happens when infected bug feces get rubbed into the bite, an eye, or a break in the skin. In the U.S., the overall risk from household encounters remains low but real, with locally acquired cases documented, including in Texas.

What Should I Do If I Find a Kissing Bug in My House

• Don’t crush it with bare hands. Use gloves or a bag/container to avoid contact with possible feces.
• Capture for ID. Place the bug in a sealed bag or small container; freezing can help preserve it. Note the date, time, and location (indoors/outdoors) and any bites on people or pets.
• Texas testing/submission: Texas residents may submit certain specimens for testing/triage. Texas A&M’s program provides guidance, and Texas DSHS accepts specific submissions (especially those linked to human exposure). Check each site for current instructions.
• Clean the area. Wipe the surface where the bug was found.

How to Get Rid of Kissing Bugs in Texas

1. Make your home harder to enter.
   1. Seal gaps around doors, windows, utility lines, and attic/roof penetrations; repair screens and weather-stripping.
   2. Reduce nighttime attraction by limiting outdoor lighting or repositioning lights away from doors/windows.
2. Reduce nearby hiding spots.
   1. Move woodpiles, rock piles, and brush away from the house.
   2. Elevate and maintain pet kennels/dog houses; keep sleeping areas for pets clean and, if possible, indoors at night.
3. Targeted treatment (when warranted).
   1. Insecticides may be part of an integrated pest management (IPM) plan, but label-directed, professional application is recommended, especially if you’re seeing multiple bugs or nymphs (a sign of nearby breeding sites).

When to Call a Pro

Repeated indoor sightings, bites, or evidence near sleeping areas—especially around kennels or outbuildings—are good reasons to bring in a licensed pest control provider to assess entry points and apply appropriate controls. Contact our team today to tell us more about your problem, and we'll give you a custom solution.