Any insect can be a nuisance in your home, but certain pests are especially problematic. Stink bugs, in particular, can give off a foul odor when they encounter danger, filling the area with an unpleasant scent. If you’ve spotted these unwanted visitors in your house in the past, discover some pest management tips to keep them at bay below. 

What Are Stink Bugs?

Triangular in shape with a brown color, these six-legged insects originated in East Asia and only made their first appearances in the U.S. during the 1990s. They feed on other insects, including caterpillars, as well as fruit, flowers, and leaves. While they can’t harm humans, they are destructive in nature and can destroy vegetation. When crushed or threatened, their notorious defense mechanism kicks in, which is the release of a foul odor produced in their abdomen.

How Can You Keep Them Away?

As with any type of pest management, the best way to handle stink bugs is to prevent them from inhabiting your property in the first place. Like many other insects, they’re drawn to light, so keeping your exterior lights off can help deter them. They also seek moisture, so put away any buckets, garbage can lids, or other areas where standing water could accumulate. 

Stink bugs are attracted to plant life, so sealing your garden off with a physical barrier may help keep them out. They can also be attracted to garbage and other fragrant potential food sources in your home. Make sure you keep fresh fruit or vegetables out of reach and sweep up any crumbs. Sealing any cracks or other entry points and replacing damaged screens are reliable pest management strategies for stink bugs and other unwanted insects or rodents. 

If you’re dealing with an insect infestation, allow the team from Cox Termite & Pest Control to help. Serving Savannah, GA, this team specializes in pest management and has been supporting the community for more than four decades. Learn about their monthly, quarterly, one-time, and 90-day service options for keeping common household pests away by visiting their website. Call (912) 236-2503 for more information.