Stink bugs are a type of insect known for the unpleasant odor they release as a defense mechanism when physically threatened or crushed. Scientifically classified under the Pentatomidae family, stink bugs are primarily agricultural pests, though they quickly become a nuisance when they invade homes in the cooler months.
If you are seeing little shield-shaped bugs in and around your home and don’t know what to do about it, this is the blog post for you! Come learn all about stink bugs and what you can do about them!
Stink bugs have a distinct, easily recognizable appearance. They are typically shield-shaped, with a broad, rounded body tapering to a point at the rear. Adult stink bugs generally measure around 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch in length. Their colors vary depending on the species but often include brown, green, or gray tones that help them blend into their surroundings. You are most likely to see them hiding in your yard in spring and summer.
The most recognizable species is the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, which is the type you are most likely to find inside your home. It is known for its mottled brown coloring with white bands on its antennae and legs. Stink bug nymphs (young stink bugs) look different from adults, often appearing red or orange and gradually changing color as they mature. Spotting these tiny red or orange colored insects is the first warning sign of a stink bug problem.
While there are over 200 species of stink bugs in North America alone, a few types are more commonly encountered in homes and gardens. Though they can be difficult to differentiate, stink bugs do differ in both habit and appearance. Be on the lookout for the following common types of stink bugs on your property.
The brown marmorated stink bug is mottled brown and gray with white bands on its antennae and legs. It’s commonly found invading homes in the fall, seeking shelter in attics, walls, and other warm spaces. Outdoors, it feeds on fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
Easy Identifiers:
The green stink bug has a bright green body with a yellowish border. It’s often found in gardens, fields, and wooded areas, especially in the eastern and southern U.S., feeding on crops like tomatoes, beans, and corn. It rarely enters homes.
Easy Identifiers:
The two-spotted stink bug is black and red or orange, with two black spots on its back. Found near gardens and farms, this species is beneficial, as it preys on other lawn pests. It is often confused for boxelder bugs due to its similar appearance.
Easy Identifiers:
The spined soldier bug is brownish with pointed "spines" on its shoulders and a sharp snout. It’s found in gardens and fields, where it helps control pests like caterpillars and beetle larvae.
Easy Identifiers:
The rough stink bug is brown or gray with a rough, textured exoskeleton that helps it blend in with tree bark. It’s commonly found on trees and shrubs, especially in wooded areas, but it’s less likely to invade homes than other stink bug species.
Easy Identifiers:
The blue shieldbug is a striking metallic blue or purplish stink bug. It’s mostly found in gardens or on hedges in Europe and parts of Asia, though it can sometimes be found in North America. It primarily feeds on plants but isn’t known to invade homes.
Easy Identifiers:
Stink bugs are largely harmless to humans and pets. They do not bite, sting, or carry diseases. Their biggest offense is their odor, which is released only when they feel threatened or when crushed. This smell can linger and be unpleasant, but it’s not toxic. For plants, however, stink bugs are much more damaging. They puncture fruits, vegetables, and other plants to feed on their sap, leading to withered leaves, discolored fruits, and overall reduced vegetation. This makes them a serious pest for farmers and gardeners.
Indoors, they are more of a nuisance than a threat. They often invade homes seeking warmth for overwintering, hiding in cracks, attics, walls, and other secluded areas. While they don’t cause structural damage or reproduce indoors, the sheer number that can gather in a home is bothersome. If you see one stink bug, there are likely many more nearby!
Stink bugs are most active during the warmer months, spring and summer, when they feed and reproduce. However, the time many homeowners notice them most is in the fall when temperatures drop. This is when stink bugs start looking for warm, sheltered spaces to spend the winter.
They often enter homes through cracks in windows, doors, siding, and vents. Once inside, they go dormant for the winter but may become active on warm winter days or when heating systems create cozy conditions. When spring arrives, they emerge again, seeking a way back outdoors to start the cycle over again.
Stopping stink bugs from invading your home and yard requires a combination of prevention and removal strategies. The most important thing to remember is that you should NEVER SQUISH STINK BUGS, as this will prompt them to release their defensive odor. Instead, focus on ways of keeping them off your property in the first place, and try to escort them outside gently without harming them.
Stink bugs can easily be caught in a glass and taken outdoors, but there are other methods to dispose of them if you are dealing with a larger infestation. Keep the following tips in mind.
Prevention Tips
Getting Rid Of Stink Bugs
As temperatures warm up, you may start to see stink bugs crawling around your home as they try to escape to the sunshine. If you want to prevent them from getting inside your home when temperatures drop again, Holmes Lawn & Pest is here to help! Our home barrier pest control service is designed to create a protective barrier around your home to keep pests out all year long. Call today for more information on the best pest control service in Salt Lake City!
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