Stink Bugs

What are stink bugs? 

Stink bugs are well-known agricultural pests that become a problem in our homes after choosing them as an overwintering site. As their name suggests, stink bugs produce an extremely foul odor that they emit from a gland on the thorax.

Stink bugs are unique looking insects with a shield-like plate on their back that gives them a triangular shape. They are a mottled brown color and sometimes have copper or metallic patches of colors on the head. Covering the antennae and edge of the abdomen is alternating dark and light bands of color.

Are stink bugs dangerous?

Though stink bugs create a strong odor that can overwhelm our homes, they are not dangerous to us or the structure of our home. However, they can potentially damage plants and crops located in our New England yards by piercing through their skin and feeding on their juices.

Why do I have a stink bug problem?

Fruit trees, vegetable gardens, berry bushes, and ornamental plants are what stink bugs like to feed on. If you have those things in your yard or close to your property, you will likely experience problems with stink bugs. Stink bugs live outside in the spring, summer, and early fall, but when the weather cools down in the late fall, these pests look for a warm space to overwinter.

When in our yards, stink bugs often find their way to the exterior of our homes, attracted by the warm walls. As they travel up the walls, they move inside through openings along the roofline, cracks in the walls, and spaces around windows and doors.

Where will I find stink bugs?

Outside, stink bugs are a common sight in orchards, farms, plant nurseries, gardens, and of course, our yards. When stink bugs move into our homes, they move to dark, quiet areas like attics, wall voids, and spaces under floors.

When overwintering, they sometimes emerge from their hiding spots on very warm, sunny days, congregating around window sills. If you spot stink bugs in your home, use a vacuum to suck them up, do not squish them!

How do I get rid of stink bugs?

Stop stink bugs from moving into your New England home to overwinter with the help of Master Mosquito Control. We are a locally owned and operated company dedicated to protecting southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts properties from dangerous, damaging, and annoying pests.

Through personalized services, a deep knowledge of the local areas we serve, and effective pest control methods, we will solve your pest problems. To learn more about our stink bug control options, reach out to Master Mosquito Control today!

How can I prevent stink bugs in the future?

Prevent stink bugs with the help of the professionals at Master Mosquito Control and our useful prevention tips:

• Stop stink bugs from finding their way into your home by sealing all entry points in the foundation, exterior walls, and roofline.
• Put mesh covers over vents and chimney openings leading into your home.
• Plant fruit trees and vegetable gardens away from your home’s exterior walls.
• Remove brush piles, woodpiles, and other debris where stink bugs can hide in your yard.