Stink bugs have been referred to by some as “the new bed bugs,” most likely referring to a recent upswing in documented infestations in the United States. Alliance Pest Control can help you prevent these pests from entering your home or garden, as well as remove them if an infestation has occurred.
What Are Stink Bugs?
Stink bugs are insects in the Pentatomidae family, and are native to Asia, specifically China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. These pests were introduced into the United States around 1998.
A season-long agricultural pest, stink bugs are less than an inch long and nearly as wide. Their backs resemble a shield, which is why they are often also referred to as “shield bugs.”
So-named because of the odor they emit (some say it smells like cilantro), stink bugs use pungent scent as a defense mechanism to ward off birds, lizards, and other predators.
Stink bugs are typically brown in color, though they sometimes have copper and blue markings.
Why Should I Be Concerned?
Stink bugs would love nothing more than to reduce your garden to the base soil. Since they travel and feed in large numbers, they have been known to cause massive damage to fruit and vegetable crops.
These pests often begin aggressively feeding in late May or early June and will eat almost any kind of fruit or vegetable crop, including:
- apples
- green beans
- soybeans
- tomatoes
- cherries and berries
- and more
What Can I Do to Prevent a Stink Bug Outbreak?
Once you see a stink bug inside your home, it is highly likely that hundreds, if not thousands, more of them are lurking in dark places. Though many people think that simply running a vacuum or killing the visible stink bugs will put an end to the infestation, the fact is the best way to eradicate these pests once and for all is to contact a professional.
Alliance Pest Control specializes in stink bugs and other pests and can help rid your home of these and other insects in a timely and thorough manner. Reach out to us today for more information on our home and commercial pest control services.
About Alliance Pest Control
Like you, we’ve lived, worked, and raised our families in the great state of New Jersey. We’re proud to have stayed family owned and operated for more than 30 years.
- Free inspections and estimates
- 24/7 emergency service
- Licensed, bonded, fully insured and background checked
At Alliance, it’s never just business: it’s always personal.