This is a photograph of an adult kissing bug, the most common species (Triatoma rubida) found in the greater Tucson area (Arizona). (photograph - Jillian Savary)

APRIL-JULY 2009 - KISSING BUGS NEEDED FROM THE TUCSON AREA! 

YOU can help us by collecting any live kissing bugs that you find! You may use any jar or container with a lid, just avoid touching them with your bare hands. Simply place an empty jar over the bug and slide a paper underneath. Turn the jar upright and screw on the lid. It's that easy!  If you need containers, let us know. And remember, do NOT touch them!  Please write down your name, address, phone number, date of collection, location found (eg, bedroom, kitchen), and if you are allergic to them (confidential information for tracking and mapping purposes only).  You may email Teresa Gregory at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call at 520-621-6631 if you have questions.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP!

Blood-sucking bugs, such as T.rubida, are commonly known in Arizona as kissing bugs, cone-nose bugs, or Mexican bed bugs. These kissing bugs are important to human health in the Southwestern United States because of the ALLERGIC REACTIONS THEIR BITES MAY CAUSE. They also are being tested for a parasite that causes Chagas Disease, although no documented cases have been reported in Arizona and only 10-12 cases have been reported in the United States.

These pages are updated frequently, please visit them again soon.