Pest Identification: Brown Stink Bug

Stink bugs, known scientifically as Pentatomidae, emit a distinctive defensive odor when disturbed, which is the basis for their name. These bugs are about ¾ inch long with a mottled grayish-brown color, six legs, and a shield-shaped body. Their foul-smelling odor is released as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened or are crushed. 

As temperatures drop in early fall, stink bugs seek warm overwintering sites, often invading homes and other structures. In warmer months, they gather in large numbers on building exteriors. An adult stink bug can lay over 400 eggs, and during winter, they enter diapause, a hibernation-like state, which allows them to survive without food for extended periods. 

Stink bugs have sucking mouthparts for extracting sap and juice from plants. They are not a direct threat to humans or property, but their tendency to invade homes in large numbers can be a nuisance. 

Preventing infestations involves sealing potential entry points such as cracks around windows, doors, utility pipes, and chimneys with high-quality caulk. Replacing damaged screens and using yellow outdoor lighting bulbs, less attractive to stink bugs, can also help deter them. Professional pest control services, like the Fall Invader Program offered typically between August and early September, can provide specialized assistance. 

Stink bugs are recognized for their unique appearance and defensive tactics. Understanding their behavior and life cycle, and implementing effective prevention measures, are key to minimizing their intrusion into homes, especially during colder months. With appropriate strategies, it's possible to coexist with these insects while reducing the inconvenience they cause. 

Stink bugs are considered an Occasional Invader, the best time to treat for them is early Fall (mid-August to early September) with our Fall Invader Program. Once they get in, they are in. Please call Ford's Hometown Services for a quote.