Stink Bugs

Stink bugs are not a native species to the United States; they were introduced into the country in 1996 from Asia. They are a type of agricultural pest that invade homes in large numbers in the fall months. As their name suggests, when they are threatened or squashed, they release a foul-smelling odor from specialized glands that are located underneath their thorax.

Stink Bug Identification

Stink bugs have mottled brown and tan bodies and have patches of copper or blue-metallic on their heads. They have light bands on their straight antenna and have dark bands on their front wings. They are 12-17 mm long and have piercing mouthparts that they use for sucking; stink bugs are as wide as they are long and have a characteristic shield plate on their back.

Habits & Life Cycle Of Stink Bugs

Stink bugs feed on apples, tomatoes, green peppers, soybeans, and many other crops. They use their mouth to pierce the skin of the fruit or vegetable and suck out moisture from it leaving behind a damaging scar on the crop.

Stink bugs breed in the summer months. The females lay their eggs on the underside of the plant that they are invading. It takes 4-5 days for the eggs to hatch; the nymphs then molt several times over the course of the summer. When first hatched, the nymph is yellow and red with red eyes, and as they molt and grow they turn to more of an off-white color until they reach their adult appearance. Once they reach adulthood in the fall, they will seek shelter inside homes and other buildings to overwinter in.

Stink Bug Damage

Along with causing damage to crops, stink bugs can become a large nuisance within homes. When they enter into houses in large numbers, their odor can become overpowering.

Stink Bug Control

Getting help from a professional pest control company is the most effective method of stink bug control. The experts at American Pest Solutions have the knowledge, experience, and technology necessary to eliminate your stink bug infestation.

Stink Bug Prevention

Preventing stink bugs from choosing your home and property to invade can be a difficult task but there are several things that you can do to help stop them from entering your home. Repair cracks and crevices found in your home’s foundation and exterior walls. Place a tight-fitting cap on your chimney and repair loose or cracked roof shingles. Caulk gaps around exterior windows and doors; replace screens that have rips in them. Also, seal around air conditioners and other utility entrances into your home.