Stink bugs may not be the most dangerous pests, but their presence can be a major nuisance for homeowners in Georgia. Known for their distinctive shield-shaped bodies and the unpleasant odor they release when disturbed, these pests have become a common problem in recent years. The most notorious of these is the brown marmorated stink bug, a non-native species that has spread across the United States, including Georgia.

In this blog, we’ll explore why stink bugs are a problem, what attracts them to your home, and how to deal with an infestation. You’ll also learn what they eat, if they pose any risks to humans, and how to prevent them from getting inside.

What Stink Bugs Eat

Stink bugs, including the brown marmorated stink bug, are primarily herbivorous. They feed on a wide variety of plants, fruits, and crops, which is one of the reasons they are considered agricultural pests. In Georgia, they target common crops like peaches, soybeans, apples, and corn, causing significant damage to these plants.

Stink bugs use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to draw nutrients from fruits and vegetables, leaving behind small, discolored spots that can ruin the appearance and taste of the produce. Although they primarily feed on plants, stink bugs can also become a problem indoors as they seek warmth during cooler months.

What Attracts Stink Bugs to Your Home?

Stink bugs, especially adult stink bugs, are attracted to warm, sunny spots, which is why they tend to invade homes during the fall. As temperatures drop, these insects seek out warm, sheltered places to overwinter, and your home provides the perfect environment.

There are a few key factors that may attract stink bugs to your home:

1. Warmth: As cold weather approaches, stink bugs look for warm places to hibernate. Your home, especially if it’s well-insulated, offers a perfect environment for them.
2. Light: Stink bugs are drawn to light, particularly during the evening. Outdoor lights or bright indoor lights visible from the outside can attract these pests to your home.
3. Food Sources: If your home is near gardens or agricultural fields, stink bugs may be drawn to the plants and fruits around your property.
4. Cracks and Openings: Stink bugs can easily enter homes through cracks, gaps around windows and doors, and other openings. They are skilled at finding small entry points to get inside.

Do Stink Bugs Bite?

One of the most common questions homeowners have about stink bugs is whether they bite. Fortunately, stink bugs are not known to bite humans or pets. They don’t have the ability to pierce skin and are not aggressive toward people.

Although stink bugs don’t bite, they can still be an annoyance. Their presence in large numbers can be overwhelming, and their unpleasant odor, which is released as a defense mechanism, can linger in your home if they are crushed or disturbed.

Can Stink Bugs Fly?

Yes, stink bugs can fly. They have a distinctive flight pattern and make a noticeable buzzing sound when airborne. While their flight is somewhat clumsy, it allows them to move from one part of your home to another easily, making it more challenging to control an infestation.

Do Stink Bugs Pose Any Risks to Humans?

Stink bugs do not pose any direct health risks to humans. They don’t spread diseases, bite, or sting. However, their foul-smelling odor can cause discomfort, and in rare cases, some people may have allergic reactions to their odor or the chemicals they release.

The primary issue with stink bugs is their potential to invade homes in large numbers, especially during the fall and winter. Their presence can be a persistent nuisance, and their odor can make your home less pleasant to live in.

What to Do if Your Home Is Infested with Stink Bugs

If you’ve noticed an influx of stink bugs in your home, it’s important to take action quickly to avoid a full-blown infestation. Here are some steps you can take to manage a stink bug problem:

1. Don’t Crush Them: Although it may be tempting to squash stink bugs, doing so will release their signature unpleasant odor. Instead, try to remove them without triggering their defense mechanism.
2. Vacuum Them Up: One of the easiest ways to get rid of stink bugs indoors is to use a vacuum cleaner. Afterward, be sure to empty the vacuum bag to prevent the odor from lingering.
3. Seal Entry Points: Identify and seal any cracks, gaps, or other openings around windows, doors, and foundations where stink bugs might be getting inside.
4. Reduce Outdoor Lighting: Stink bugs are attracted to light, so minimizing the use of outdoor lighting can reduce the number of bugs that are drawn to your home.
5. Install Screens: Adding screens to windows, vents, and doors can help keep stink bugs from entering your home.

If the infestation persists or you’re dealing with a large number of stink bugs, it’s a good idea to contact a pest control company. Professional pest control services can help you manage the problem efficiently and provide long-term solutions.

Stink bugs may not pose significant health risks, but their presence can be a nuisance, especially when they invade your home in large numbers. Understanding what attracts stink bugs, how to prevent them from entering your home, and how to deal with an infestation can help you keep these pests under control.

If you’re dealing with a stink bug infestation or want to take preventive measures, contacting a local pest control company is the best way to ensure your home stays pest-free. Pest control professionals can assess the situation and provide tailored solutions to keep stink bugs and other pests from becoming a problem in your home.