Stink Bugs In Virginia

What do stink bugs look like? 

Stink bugs are part of the order Hemiptera and are also referred to as "shield bugs" because of the triangular plate located on their backs. This species is not native to the United States and was introduced into Pennsylvania in 1998 from Eastern Asia. A small gland located on this insect's thorax emits an unpleasant odor hence their name. Stink bug's bodies are mottled brown, and some adults have patches of copper or metallic colors on their heads. Adults grow to about 3/4", and they are about as long as they are wide, with six thin legs extending from the sides of their body.

Are stink bugs dangerous?

Stink bugs are agricultural pests that can damage a wide variety of crops and plants and threaten the agricultural industry. They use their specialized mouthparts to pierce the outside “skin” and suck out its liquids. The damage caused during the feeding process renders the fruits, vegetables, or ornamental plants unfit for sale. Stinks bugs pose no direct danger to people as they don’t bite or sting and aren’t known to spread diseases.

Will stink bugs damage my house and property?

Why do I have a stink bug problem?

Stink bugs breed in the summer months, maturing into adults in the fall. When the weather cools down in the late fall, adult stink bugs often seek indoor shelter to overwinter. After gathering on the warm, sunny sides of buildings, they can move inside through cracks around windows and doors, exterior walls, and the roofline. Once inside, they move into attic spaces, behind walls, under floors, and crawl spaces. They move back outside once the weather warms up in the spring.

How do I get rid of stink bugs?

Do the pest professionals at All Pest Control have stink bug-prevention tips?

Preventing stink bugs from getting into your home can be difficult, but there are a few things you can do to deter these household-invading pests.

• Stop stink bugs from finding their way into your home by sealing all the foundation and exterior wall entry points.

• Repair holes along the roofline.

• Install weather-stripping around windows and doors.

• Put mesh covers over vents and chimney openings leading into your home.

• Place vegetable and fruit gardens a distance away from the outside of your home.

• Stink bugs and many other insects are attracted to light. Replace white outdoor light bulbs with yellow or LED light bulbs, which they are less attracted to.

Reach out to All Pest Control & Solutions for more tips or get your home the professional pest prevention it needs.