Stink bug Facts & Identification
Protect Your Property from Stink Bugs
Stink Bugs in East Tennessee
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive pest in East Tennessee, recognizable by its shield-shaped body, mottled brown coloration, and white bands on its antennae and legs. These bugs are commonly found in gardens, fields, and wooded areas during warm months, but they seek shelter indoors in homes and businesses during the fall and winter. While they do not bite or spread disease, they emit a strong, unpleasant odor when disturbed or crushed and can damage crops, fruits, and ornamental plants. Their presence indoors can be a nuisance, especially in large numbers.
Green Stink Bug
Green stink bugs are common pests in East Tennessee, easily identified by their bright green, shield-shaped bodies and narrow, orange or yellow edges along their thorax. They are typically found in gardens, fields, and wooded areas, feeding on a variety of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and crops like soybeans. While they do not bite or pose health risks, they can cause significant agricultural damage by piercing plants and sucking out their juices, leading to deformed or ruined produce. When disturbed or crushed, they release a foul-smelling odor as a defense mechanism.
How Do I Get Rid Of A Stink Bug?
Stink bug removal
To get rid of a stink bug in your house, avoid crushing it, as this will release its foul odor. Instead, use a vacuum to suck it up and immediately dispose of the contents outside. Alternatively, you can gently capture it using a jar or cup and release it outdoors. Another effective method is placing a soapy water solution in a container and knocking the bug into it, which will quickly eliminate it. To prevent more from getting inside, check for entry points like cracks around windows and doors and seal them with caulk or weather stripping.
Are Stink Bugs Poisonous?
dangers
Stink bugs are not poisonous to humans or pets. They do not bite, sting, or carry diseases. However, if crushed or threatened, they release a foul-smelling odor that can be irritating. In rare cases, some people may experience mild skin irritation or allergic reactions if they come into contact with the bug’s defensive chemicals. While stink bugs are not harmful to humans, they can be a nuisance and may cause damage to plants and crops.
How do you prevent stink bugs?
Stink bug prevention
To prevent stink bugs from entering your home or business, start by sealing any potential entry points. Use caulk to close cracks around windows, doors, vents, and utility openings, and install weather stripping and fine mesh screens on doors and windows. Keeping outdoor lights dim or using yellow bulbs can also help, as stink bugs are attracted to bright lights at night.
Inside, reduce clutter and food sources by keeping your space clean, vacuuming regularly, and storing food in airtight containers. In gardens, remove weeds and overgrown vegetation, and consider planting stink bug-repelling plants like garlic or mint. If you have a persistent problem, applying insecticide barriers around entry points or consulting a pest control professional may be necessary.
For professional stink bug control services in Knoxville, contact Pest-Ops, LLC at (865) 966-0750.
When is stink bug season?
seasonalities
Stink bug season in East Tennessee typically peaks in the fall and spring. In the fall, as temperatures drop, stink bugs seek shelter indoors to overwinter, making them more noticeable in homes and businesses. They enter through cracks, vents, and gaps around windows and doors.
In the spring, as the weather warms, stink bugs become active again, leaving their hiding spots to reproduce and feed on plants. During summer, they thrive outdoors, feeding on fruits, vegetables, and crops. While they can be a nuisance year-round, the most significant indoor infestations usually occur in late summer and fall when they seek warmth.