September Pest of the Month: Stink Bugs

Brief description:

The stink bug gets its name from its ability to release an odor when they are disturbed or crushed.  Stink bugs have a triangular or shield shape.

Habits:

• Enter homes and other structures in the winter for shelter and emerge from their hiding spaces in early spring.
• Mostly feed on plants and crops.
• Some species feed off of other pests such as caterpillars and other crop damaging pests.  This species of stink bug is used as a natural pest control for crops.
• When disturbed, they release a foul smelling fluid from their pores to protect themselves from predators.

Different species:

• Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
• Kudzu Bug

Threats:

• Can damage plants and crops.
• Invade homes in large numbers.

Prevention:

• Seal cracks and crevices around the structure of your home so they cannot enter.
• Do not shine outside lights directly onto your home…this will attract stink bugs to your home.
• Use a vacuum to get rid of stink bugs.  Empty contents of vacuum into a tightly sealed trash bag and dispose of immediately.  Do NOT crush!  Crushing will cause them to emit their infamous odor.
• Because of their ability to invade en masse, contact Northwest Exterminating if a stink bug infestation happens in your home or business.

Other pests to look out for:

• Ants
• Lady Bugs
• Roaches
• Spiders