Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs Shield Shape Identification & Facts in Marlton, NJ; What Do They Eat & Why Do They Smell?

Brown marmorated stink bugs, also known simply as stink bugs were first reported in Asia but they made their debut appearance in the United States in 1998. The term “marmorated” relates to their marble-like color pattern. The population of stink bugs exploded by the year 2010 and was the cause of $37 million dollars in damage for apple growers in the Mid-Atlantic area alone. The USDA reports that stink bugs will feed on some 300 different plants. They can cause dermatitis to us if we get scratched by the sharp edges of their shield-like shell. The skin around the area can become swollen, reddened and itchy.

Interesting Facts About Stink Bugs; What Do They Eat & Where Do They Live?

Stink bugs live in gardens, farms, orchards and around human settlements. They will feed on flowers, leaves, fruit and crops. They will feed on the juices that plants use to transport and store food. Stink bugs have a needle-like mouthpart that they use to pierce the skin of the fruit and will even use this technique on other pests to eat their body fluids. When they aren’t using the mouthparts, they will tuck it in between their front legs. They do not like cold weather and will hibernate over the winter. If they find refuge from the winter in your home they will emerge in the spring, usually in early May. They will eat for approximately two weeks, mate and eggs will be laid by the female stink bugs. These clusters of eggs will be on the underside of leaves from June to August and can contain up to 28 egg per sac.

How Do Stink Bugs Communicate & Protect Themselves? Pheromones & Odors

Stink bugs release a foul odor that make them stink when they feel threatened. The odor they give off is similar to the way cilantro smells. Stink bugs like to be close to one another and will cram onto tight spaces cheek to cheek. If they find a space they like, they will spend the entire winter there and will let other stink bugs know about the space by releasing an aggregation pheromone. This smell is different than the bad smell they produce. Stink bugs don’t have any natural predators but birds have begun eating them as well as lizards. They must taste better than they smell!

How to Prevent & Get Rid of Shield Shaped Stink Bugs

Do an inspection of your home to look for ways stink bugs can get into your residence. Make sure all screens on doors and windows are free of rips or tears. You can use a vacuum indoors if you find them, but make sure you throw the bag away outside of your home. You can use insecticides in your garden and keep weeds around your garden under control. Try placing yellow objects away from your home because they attracted to this color. Stink bugs move more slowly in the morning so you can even pick them by hand to remove them. You may have an infestation if you notice large numbers of them in the fall-sunny side or the house trying to stay warm. Stink bugs are very difficult to eradicate as they can tolerate pesticides that usually kill other bugs. Chemical products can be applied around area that you suspect they are entering your home and repeated applications may be needed depending on your situation.

Stink Bug Inspections & Removal

As the weather continues to cool off stink bugs will try and find a spot to spend the winter. If they make their way inside your home, it’s very difficult to remove them on your own. Contact Ross Environmental Solutions to schedule treatment of stink bugs. We are on call for all your pest control needs!