Eight months out of the year, stink bugs seem like non-existent pests. It’s only as fall comes into full swing that homeowners begin to notice these smelly insects buzzing around inside. If you have trouble with these invasive pests year after year, you probably have a few questions. We are here to answer those questions today and pull back the curtain on these interesting, but bothersome, home invaders.
What Are Stink Bugs?
Identify a stink bug by its mottled greyish-brown, shield-shaped body, six stick-like legs, and two long straight antennae. Around homes stink bugs do their best to stay out of sight and are most commonly found hiding inside cracks and crevices, wall/ceiling voids, and inside attics.
Stink bugs are not primarily home-invading pests. 90% of the year these smelly insects are outside destroying crops, flowers, fruit trees, and soybean plants. If you have fruit trees on your property, you might notice these pests much earlier in the year.
The only reason these pests are most commonly noticed in fall is due to their simple need to stay warm. When the temperature outside drops, stink bugs start sunbathing on the exterior of homes. As these pests crawl around on the exterior of homes they find cracks, gaps, and holes that allow them a way inside. This is typically where most problems begin.
Can Stink Bugs Hurt You?
There is no denying that stink bugs stink. If you have ever crushed one of these insects, you have already experienced the pungent cilantro-like odor they produce. But are stink bugs dangerous? In short, no.
Stink bugs pose no direct threat to humans. They do not spread any diseases, don’t bite, and are not venomous or poisonous in any way. The smell these pests release, however, can trigger allergies in certain individuals. Talk to your doctor to assess your health risk.
Are Stink Bugs Preventable?
As we head into winter, stink bugs will be looking for ways to get indoors. To make sure these pests stay out of your Mooresville home, here are a few helpful prevention tips you should keep in mind:
- Use a caulk gun to fill holes, gaps, and cracks in your home’s exterior foundation and around the frames of doors and windows.
- Make sure your home’s window and door screens are in good repair.
- Repair damage to door sweeps and weather stripping.
- Pick up fruit that drops from trees around your property.
- Consider removing flowers from your properties that stink bugs eat.
- Turn off exterior lights at night or invest in insect resistance bulbs.
- Check storage boxes and other items that are stored outside for stink bugs before bringing them indoors.
- Fix leaky piping and fixtures in and around your home.
- Eliminate sources of water build up on your property.
- Make sure your home is properly ventilated and use a dehumidifier around particularly humid areas.
When To Call A Professional
There are two times when you should call a professional; after stink bugs have invaded your home, or when you don’t have time to prevent these pests on your own but still want them to stay out. At Lake Norman Home Services, we provide comprehensive exclusion and elimination for annoying pests like stink bugs.
To get your home the protection it deserves, get in touch with our team today. We will implement fast and effective solutions designed to fend off pest problems, and fend them off for good. With affordable options and care for quality, you won’t regret choosing us for the job. Contact our team today to learn more about our pest control plans and schedule your home for a thorough pest inspection.