What type of pests produce brown or rusty droppings?

The correct answer identifies bed bugs as the type of pest that produces brown or rusty droppings. Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Their droppings, which can appear as small, dark spots or streaks, are comprised of digested blood and can have a rusty or brown coloration. This characteristic can help in identifying an infestation, as homeowners may find these droppings on bedding, mattress seams, or furniture.

Roaches, while they do leave droppings as well, typically produce droppings that are dark and cylindrical rather than brown or rusty. Ants also leave droppings, but they are generally not as noticeable to the naked eye and do not exhibit the same coloration as bed bug droppings. Mice droppings are often dark, elongated, and can resemble small grains of rice but do not present the rusty appearance associated with bed bugs. Thus, bed bugs stand out for their distinctive droppings that can help indicate their presence in living areas.