Stink bugs belong to the Pentatomidae family of insects and are also known as "shield bugs" (because all adult stink bugs are shield-shaped). They derive their name from their tendency to eject an extremely foul and strong-smelling fluid from their thorax when disturbed, handled, injured, squashed, or threatened.
Stink bugs are considered an agricultural pest by commercial farmers due to the huge losses they incur in the produce industry every year, especially growers of apples, peaches, and pears. A structured pest control and prevention plan is key to removing stink bugs and keeping them off your property. A structured pest control and prevention plan is key to removing stink bugs and keeping them off your property. A professional stink bug exterminator can eliminate current infestations and help prevent future ones.
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The most common species in the United States is the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys). They were accidentally introduced from Asia in the late 1990s and can now be found all over the country. Stink bugs are brownish-grey, have six legs, and a body shaped like a triangular shield. They’re usually less than an inch long.
Although they may appear menacing, stink bugs do not bite or sting humans and rarely cause structural damage to properties. Nevertheless, to homeowners, stink bugs are considered a major nuisance pest, particularly in winter when they enter homes in large numbers as the weather cools, seeking warmth.
Baby stink bugs, known as nymphs, are immature, wingless forms of adult stink bugs. They usually remain on plants, where they feed and develop, and rarely become a nuisance indoors because they are unable to fly. However, if infested plants are located near a structure, nymphs may crawl from the vegetation onto nearby buildings. Late-stage nymphs and newly emerged adults are often the most damaging as they appear on high-value crops during peak growth, leading to deformities and rot.
Stink bug eggs are typically laid in clusters, starting as pale green or white when fresh, but their color changes as they develop, often turning yellowish, pinkish, or even developing red spots (the developing bug's eyes) just before hatching. Some species, like the brown marmorated stink bug, lay light green or pale green eggs, while others can be pale yellow, creamy white, or even bluish. As nymphs grow, they measure between about â…› and ½ inch in length and go through several molting stages before reaching adulthood, gradually developing wings and adult coloring.
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The green stink bug (Chinavia halaris) is another member of the Pentatomidae family. This species is widespread in the U.S. and is especially destructive to crops such as soybeans, corn, tomatoes, and fruit trees. Their feeding damages developing seeds and fruit, leading to deformities and yield loss. Active during warm months, they are a constant threat to farmers and home gardeners.
The black stink bug (Proxys punctulatus) is less common but can still be found across the Mid-Atlantic. This shield bug consumes grains and vegetables (like cotton, beans, and tomatoes), using its piercing mouthparts (stylets) to extract the juices from plant tissue. It also preys on insect larvae, acting as a natural pest controller.
Stink bugs typically enter a home by exploiting small gaps and openings as they search for warmth and shelter. They enter through cracks in siding, gaps around windows and doors, damaged screens, utility penetrations, and attic or crawl space vents. However, unlike many other pests, stink bugs don’t breed indoors but enter a hibernation-like state during winter, hiding in wall voids, attics, crawl spaces, and behind baseboards.
Fortunately, they don’t lay eggs or breed during this time. Reproduction begins when temperatures rise, which is why stink bugs are most noticeable in the fall as they search for a suitable place to overwinter and again in spring when warmer weather causes them to become active.
Property owners can take several steps to reduce the risk of an infestation. Since stink bugs routinely enter through small openings, sealing gaps around the foundation, windows, and doors is an essential first line of defense, along with ensuring doors and windows fit properly.
Moreover, a thorough home inspection can help identify other potential entry points. Damaged window and door screens should be repaired or replaced. Vents should be adequately screened, and gaps around utility pipes, electrical outlets, and along the roofline and fascia should be repaired. Keeping vegetation trimmed back from the foundation also helps limit access and shelter near the home.
If stink bugs have already entered your premises, Ehrlich can help. We are experts in stink bug control and understand how to eliminate them. While stink bug traps and other products are available for purchase, a professional stink bug pest control service is the best method to both prevent and manage stink bug infestations. Our preventative solution creates a treatment zone around your property to keep stink bugs outside, where they belong.
Whether you’re dealing with an ongoing infestation or looking to prevent one, Ehrlich provides you with expert stink bug control advice and solutions. Our technicians are familiar with the behavior of stink bugs and understand how to help manage and prevent infestations.
We have been treating properties for the brown marmorated stink bug, and other stink bug species since they first began causing trouble for American homeowners and businesses in the early 2000s.
If you’ve done everything you can to get rid of stink bugs and still notice them in or around your building, it may be time to get in touch with a professional pest control company. Call us at 888-680-0418 or contact us online to see how our exterior and interior services can benefit your home or business.
A common question we get asked is if stink bugs can bite humans? Find out by clicking here.
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Stink bugs are found in many parts of the world and can thrive in rural and urban areas. Some species, like the brown marmorated stink bug, are invasive and originally came from Asia, while others, such as the brown and green stink bugs, are native to North America. They typically live outdoors on trees, crops, and other host plants, but often move indoors when temperatures drop.
Yes, stink bugs can fly. Adult stink bugs have fully developed wings and use them to move between host plants and buildings, especially in the fall when they search for warm places to overwinter. Their ability to fly makes it easier for them to spread and find entry points around homes and structures.
Stink bugs emit a foul odor as a defense mechanism. When they feel threatened or are crushed, they release a strong-smelling chemical from glands in their thorax. This odor is meant to deter predators and protect the stink bug from being eaten. While unpleasant to people, the smell is an effective survival tool for the insect.
Like many other household pests, stink bugs are attracted to the warmth found inside homes or businesses. Stink bugs are attracted to bright lights, so keep exterior lighting turned off, and window blinds pulled down. Learn more about the best ways to get rid of stink bugs.
Stink bugs are annoying but not dangerous. They don’t bite humans or damage your home like termites and other bugs can. They can invade in large numbers, which makes some homeowners uneasy. Although stink bugs don’t pose a danger to humans or pets, in high numbers, they can destroy crops and damage fruit badly enough to make it impossible to sell.
Stink bugs feed on the juices of fruits, vegetables, and other plants. Using their piercing mouthparts, they draw sap from leaves, stems, and fruit, which can cause discoloration and deformation. This feeding behavior can lead to significant stink bug damage, especially for farmers and gardeners managing sensitive crops.
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