Orkin Canada based the ranking on how many bed bug treatments it performed in both residential and commercial settings across the country in 2018

According to a national pest control company, Halifax is the fifth worst city in Canada when it comes to bed bugs.

Orkin Canada based the ranking on how many bed bug treatments it performed in both residential and commercial settings across the country in 2018.

Toronto topped the list, followed by Winnipeg, St. John's and Vancouver.

Ottawa, Hamilton, Sudbury, Windsor and Scarborough round out the rest of the top 10.

The pests are oval shaped and flat, have six legs, two antennae and no wings.

Adults are around 5 mm in length but some can swell up to 10 mm after feeding.

Bed bug nymphs are approximately 1-4 mm in length -- around the size of the head of a pin -- and are white or a golden colour until they feed.

Because the pests are good hitchhikers, the company says early detection is key to reducing the chance of an infestation.

Other than actually spotting one, tiny dark coloured stains, cast skins and bites on the legs, arms, neck, or face are signs that they may be around.

The little blood suckers can be found anywhere, but mattress tags and seams, under seat cushions, behind headboards, in the creases of drawers, and buckling wallpaper or carpet are some of their favourite hiding spots.

Orkin says doing the following can help prevent bed bugs in your home: