(Newswire.net — May 23, 2016) — Stink bugs are a common pest that can be found in most areas of the United States. Chances are you’ve seen them, but maybe you didn’t know what they were called. If you squish one, you will quickly find out where they get their name!
What Are Stink Bugs?
Stink bugs originally come from Asia but have found their way into over 42 states across the US. They are usually around one-half to one inch long and are most commonly green or brown. Stink bugs have a large, oval-shaped body that is about as wide as it is long. Some people describe their body as “shield shaped”.
There are many different species of stink bugs in the United States, some of which are native, but most people think of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug when you mention the term “stink bug”. This bug came to the US in the 1990’s and has quickly spread. It is an invasive species with no natural predators in the United States to control its growth.
What Do Stink Bugs Eat?
Most stink bugs eat plants, which can cause a problem for fruit and vegetable growers. Some farmers had total losses of several crops in 2013 due to stink bug damage, according to a research entomologist from the U.S Department of Agriculture. They cause damage by piercing the skin of plants to get to the juice inside. They inject a bit of their saliva into the plant, which is toxic to the plant’s cells and causes the plant to grow with a scar. Almost all plants are at risk, from houseplants to seeds, nuts, and fruit.
If you have plants near or around your home, you are more likely to find stink bugs inside. Also, houseplants can harbor stink bugs as they are likely to hang out there while searching for a way outside. Stink bugs usually do not eat or reproduce while indoors.
How Do Stink Bugs Get Inside?
Stink bugs come inside homes during the late summer or fall looking for warmth. Adult stink bugs can fly quite well and find ways to sneak in. They come in through holes or cracks. Then, they hide all winter and come out when it warms up again in spring. That’s usually when homeowners notice them. They are looking for a way out.
The good news is that they do not do any structural damage to a home nor do they harm people or pets. The bad news is that if you find one, you likely have more hiding nearby.
Do Stink Bugs Bite?
Not to worry – stink bugs don’t normally bite people. They are a nuisance, but not a major problem.
Do Stink Bugs Really Stink?
They sure do! Stink bugs emit an odor whenever they are threatened. Scientists think this is a deterrent to predators. The bugs produce their smell in a gland located on their abdomen. The smell has been compared to skunk, dirty socks, and coriander. If you smash one, you will know it.
How Can You Prevent Stink Bug Infestation?
The best way to prevent stink bugs from entering your home is to do an inspection and seal up any cracks or openings. Make sure to check the attic and crawl space as these are common areas stink bugs can creep in. Caulk around doors and windows, and use weather stripping if there are any gaps around doors.
Help! I Already Have Stink Bugs! How To Get Rid of Them
Some people recommend vacuuming them up, which seems to be effective, but be warned that if you try this route your vacuum is likely to smell bad for a while!
You can try your hand at homemade stink bug traps, but there are mixed reviews of their effectiveness. One trap to try is to put a tub or skillet of soapy water under a light. Stink bugs like light but can’t swim, so they are attracted to the light then fall into the water and drown. Local hardware stores usually carry stink bug traps as well, but the best way to control them is through prevention.
Pesticides are not recommended inside the home, but exterior application at the right time of year can be effective at controlling future infestations.
If all efforts fail to rid the home of stink bugs, professional help may be warranted. A pest control specialist like UltraPro Pest Protection can work with you to determine the best pest management plan for your needs.
UltraPro Pest Protection
23 Bergenline Avenue
Westwood, NJ 07675
877-492-2252
http://ultrapropestcontrol.com
With over 30 years of experience in eliminating bed bugs, termites, and rodents, UltraPro Pest Protection is emerging as New York and New Jersey’s leading pest control service for homeowners and commercial businesses.
For more information, visit ultrapropestcontrol.com