How to Get Rid of the Stink Bugs in Your Home
The U.S. has tens of species of stink bugs – small, flying insects that eat fruits and vegetables and have a pungent odor they release if they sense they’re in danger. So why is the brown marmorated stink bug making headlines? Because the bug has no known predators in the U.S. to keep its population in check. Instead, the stinky pest is growing rapidly and causing millions of dollars in crop damage, and pervading homes with its pungent stench.
Scientifically known as the halyomorpha halys, the bug is a native of China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan, but was first spotted in the U.S. in 1998. As of late, it has spread across the U.S. from Baltimore to Portland, sucking the juice out of fruits and leaving them misshaped. But even if you’re not a farmer, the bug’s unpleasant aroma is something you want to stay away from. Luckily, there are a few ways to prevent stink bugs from entering your home and a few remedies for getting rid of them if they’ve already invaded.
How to Keep Stink Bugs Away
Smaller than an inch long, the dime-sized pest can enter your home through the smallest of openings. The best way to prevent this from happening is to seal up all cracks and make sure you have working screens. Stink bugs tend to seep through cracks in the roof and settle in attics. If you suspect this, contact a professional roofer to examine your roof.
Additionally, stink bugs are attracted to light and heat. Turning off your outdoor lights and pulling your shades in the evening may prevent the bugs from trying to enter your home. Another suggestion is to remove weeds and overgrowth from around your house as they are prime shelter for the bugs.
Some people claim that planting catnip in your garden will keep stink bugs away. Another suggestion given is to place garlic around your home to ward off the bugs, or mixing garlic with water and spraying plants. Additionally, people recommend either placing mint leaves around your house or mixing them with water.
How to Remove Stink Bugs
The only known predator of the stink bug is a small wasp from China. While experts are doing research into the possibility of introducing the wasp in the U.S., currently the only real solution to an infestation is to hire a professional stink bug expert.
However, for a smaller scale invasion you can take matters into your own hands. But be careful; though the insect is slow and easy to catch, handling it the wrong way can cause the odor to be released. One way to remove the stink bugs, especially if you’re not comfortable getting close to them, is to vacuum them up. This avoids direct contact and should prevent the smell from being released. However, the vacuum cleaner itself may retain a bit of smelly residue so it’s best to have a designated vacuum just for stink bugs. Another option is a jar with soapy water. Place the bug in the jar and the soap will dissolve the exoskeleton and kill the bug.
Whatever amount of stink bugs your home is suffering from, consult with a professional pest control service to determine the best course of action. While not hazardous to your health, any home or garden is better off without the stink bug and its less-than-fragrant odor.
