Stink Bugs
If you’ve noticed that you have stink bugs in house and yard, you’ve probably discovered that they can be annoying. These insects are found in various parts of the United States in fields and gardens, and occasionally they nest in homes. In late summer and early fall, they seek shelter for the coming winter months, often choosing homes and buildings. As the weather grows warm again, they leave their winter sites and become active once more. Fortunately, it’s not too difficult to get rid of these insects and to keep your home and plants safe. It’s helpful to learn more about these bugs so you’ll know safe and effective ways to remove them from your property.
What Do Stink Bugs Eat?
Stink bugs like to hide where there’s lots of vegetation, which is why they nest in gardens or flower beds. Getting rid of garden overgrowth and weeds keep these bugs away since tending to such areas removes their hiding places.
Stink bugs also hide out in these places to find their food. They feed on the sap or juice of leaves and plants, causing infestation that compromises the health of your plants. The insects also feed on fruits like apples and peaches as well as on pecans, berries, peppers, and beans. They especially like plants that have an odor to them, such as cabbage. Some stink bugs also eat other insects like ladybugs, as well as certain varieties of beetles, caterpillars and even other stink bugs. Many species of stink bugs eat only plants when they’re younger but eat plants and other insects as they mature.
Do Stink Bugs Stink?
Stink bugs are like skunks in that they don’t always have an odor; they only emit a pungent smell to repulse predators. They have a gland located in their abdomens that releases the smell; some species can even spray several inches when threatened. The only times when stink bugs actually stink are when they emit their protective odor or when they’re killed.
Do Stink Bugs Bite?
Stink bugs don’t bite, because their mouths are designed for suction and for piercing plants. Since these insects don’t feed on human blood as mosquitoes, bed bugs and biting flies do, they don’t bite humans. Moreover, their mouths aren’t designed to puncture human flesh.
Are Stink Bugs Harmful?
Stink bugs are not harmful in terms of biting or stinging humans, but they do pose a threat to your garden. They can drain the life from the plants that they feed on. But they can also be helpful because they eat other garden-threatening insects.
How To Get Rid of Stink Bugs
If stink bugs have become a problem in your area, it’s essential to exterminate these pests safely, effectively and immediately. There are several methods you can try on your own to ensure that they don’t infest your home and garden. Some practical tips for keeping out these little insects include sealing all cracks around windows, and doors. You’ll also want to pay attention to less obvious openings such as outlets and utility pipes. Just remember when dealing with stink bugs prevention is key. Once they get into your home it is nearly impossible to get rid of them on your own. It’s time to call in a pest control company for sure.
For additional information on prevention and help with getting rid of stink bugs in your home or yard contact NJ Pest Control. Let us help you get rid of your stink bugs and prevent them from appearing again. We are known for our professional pest control and reliable service. We would love to have you join our long list of happy customers. Contact us.
