For many people, just hearing the words “stink bug” is unpleasant. The most common species of this pest, the brown marmorated stink bug, is best known for the unpleasant odor it releases when threatened or crushed. Although these bugs are mostly an annoyance to homeowners, they can be devastating to agriculture, and thus are a common target for pest control.

What You Need to Know About Stink Bugs

How do you identify a stink bug?

Stink bugs are about three-quarters of an inch long, and they have grayish-brown triangular bodies that resemble a shield. However, their most notable trait is their smell, which reminds some people of a skunk or burning rubber. During the summer months, they're usually found outdoors, often on the leaves of fruits trees and soybeans. During colder months, they tend to cluster together, preferably indoors. For this reason, pest control for stink bugs is often a late summer and early fall task to keep the bugs from coming inside.

Are stink bugs dangerous?

Stink bugs are unable to bite or sting humans, so they don't present any risks to health. They also won't damage your home, unlike termites or other insects. However, they are a nuisance, and can be devastating to crops, so preventing infestations is essential.

How can you keep them out of your house?

Preventing an infestation of these smelly insects starts with sealing any possible entry points. This includes fixing broken screens and sealing any cracks around windows and doors, chimneys, utility pipes, and siding and wood fascia boards with a high-quality silicone or latex caulk. Since stink bugs release pheromones to attract others when they find a suitable place to spend the winter, arranging for a pest control company to treat your property in the late summer can prevent them.

What should you do if there’s an infestation? 

If you discover stink bugs in your home, removing them as soon as possible can prevent a bigger problem. Although the insects will hibernate during the winter and won't reproduce or feed, they'll often return to the same home year after year. If there are only a few bugs, you can remove them using a vacuum, but be sure to empty the bag or container immediately afterward. Larger infestations will require professional pest control measures.

If you’re dealing with stink bugs or any other insect infestation, the team at Acme Pest Control Co Inc can help. Serving Concord and Mooresville, NC, these experts will identify the problem and create a custom solution to keep your home and family safe. Whether you need insect control, rodent removal, or an inspection, they have the tools and techniques to get the job done. Call (704) 786-4166 to speak with a team member about your needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.