Originally from Asia, stink bugs were first found in North America in 1998. They can fly, and the brown marmorated stink bug is the most common pest of their species.
Stink bugs are attracted to warmth, shelter, and light. That’s why stink bugs are most commonly found in the fall, when they’re seeking shelter from the cold and moving indoors through unsealed entry points in the home.
Stink bugs reside in North America and have been found in 47 states and four Canadian provinces. The highest concentration is in the mid-Atlantic area. They’re typically found outside buildings or inside on doors and windows. Within the home, stink bugs seek sunny areas to bask and warm themselves. They stick together, so you may find large groups (dead or alive) near or below your windows.
The brown marmorated stink bug can live between six to eight months and is most common from March to September.
When threatened, stink bugs release a foul-smelling chemical known as an aggregation pheromone from their thorax or abdomen.
To prevent stink bugs from entering your home, use caulk to seal off any entry points, like cracks in doors, holes in siding, and spaces between windows. If you think they’re coming in through your exterior doors, use weather stripping to seal any gaps. Double check all vents, especially those in less-common spaces like the basement or attic, and ensure screens are intact. If there isn’t one or you’d like an extra precaution, install a mesh screen behind the vent grate inside your home. Remember, light also attracts stink bugs, so turning off exterior lights can reduce their numbers. It could also help to keep your yard maintained to limit the areas they can hide in, like overgrown trees or bushes.
To remove stink bugs, use a hand vacuum to get them out of your house. This helps to avoid squishing them so they won’t release a pungent odor.
If you find yourself with a stink bug infestation, call us for a quick and efficient removal.
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