Pest Control for Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
Do you have a stink bug problem in your home or business? Schedule a service with Plunkett’s right away to get and keep stink bugs out.
About Stink Bugs
The brown marmorated stink bug is a relatively “new” pest to North America. They were introduced into Pennsylvania in 1996 and have quickly become a problem for home and business owners.
What Do Stink Bugs Look Like?
Stink bugs are shaped like small shields and are approximately ½ to ¾ of an inch long. They are usually a brown-gray color with antennae that have white and brown stripes. They can also be recognized by the pungent odor (hence the name) they release when startled or crushed. This is a stink bug’s defense mechanism and has been compared to the smell of rotting vegetables.
Why are Stink Bugs in My House?
Brown marmorated stink bugs enter homes and businesses in the fall in order to seek shelter from harsh weather. They enter through cracks and crevices in a structure's exterior and will huddle along windowsills and any warm place they can find that may offer sunlight. They are also an agricultural pest, meaning they feed on fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
Are Stink Bugs Harmful to Humans or Pets?
Stink bugs do not pose a threat to humans or pets. However, they can be a nuisance to property owners when they congregate in large numbers (although these pests will not reproduce inside structures). When stink bugs are crushed or vacuumed up, their stinky odor can be extremely pungent.
How to Get Rid of Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
It’s likely that you won’t be able to eradicate stink bugs completely from the outside of your property. Because of this, the most effective pest control option for these pests is to hire a professional pest control company, like Plunkett’s. Our pest control specialists create a tailored plan that will suit your specific property.
Eradicating brown marmorated stink bugs using DIY methods has not proven to be effective in most situations. Using treatments that may contain pesticides can be harmful to people and pets if they are applied improperly.
DIY pest control may also be short lived, requiring more applications in the future. If you have a stink bug problem, contact Plunkett’s today for our professional pest control solutions that will get and keep stink bugs away from your space.
Our Stink Bug Control Process
Pest control for stink bugs is similar to control for other home-invading bugs (such as boxelder bugs). Buildings can be treated prior to stink bugs’ fall migration so they are killed before even entering the home or building.
Plus, at Plunkett’s, we never set it and forget it. We will continue to monitor your space to ensure stink bugs (and other pests) haven’t returned.
If you’re ready to get and keep stink bugs out of your home or business, schedule a service with Plunkett’s today.
Stink Bug Control With Plunkett's
At Plunkett’s, our goal is to help you quickly, conveniently, and in the most cost-effective way. We make every effort to be with you asap, usually within a day or two.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are stink bugs called “stink bugs?”
Stink bugs get their name from the pungent odor they release as a defense mechanism.
Can stink bugs cause damage to my property?
They can cause damage to crops, as they are agricultural pests, but they do not cause direct damage to property.
Can an exterminator get rid of stink bugs?
Yes. An exterminator can help with stink bug infestations. Pest control professionals, like Plunkett’s, can create specific plans to help ensure your property is free of stink bugs.
Do stink bugs survive the winter?
During the winter months, stink bugs go into diapause – a hibernation-like state in which they remain inactive and don’t eat. They gather in leaf bundles, hollow logs, and other insulated areas until spring. That is unless they find a nice quiet spot in your attic or basement instead. Learn more about how stink bugs make it through the colder months!
How can I safely remove stink bugs from my home without causing them to release their odor?
Removing stink bugs without triggering their infamous odor can be a delicate process. The key is to avoid crushing them. One effective method is to gently scoop them onto a piece of paper or use a vacuum cleaner with a bag to capture them. Afterwards, release them outside far from your home, or if using a vacuum, immediately remove and seal the bag before disposal. For non-chemical methods, consider deterring stink bugs with natural repellents like garlic or mint sprays. You can also rely on Plunkett’s Pest Control to remove and prevent stink bugs. Schedule a service for peace of mind!
How can I tell if the stink bugs in my property are gone for good?
Determining if stink bugs have permanently left your property can be challenging, as they are adept at hiding and can reappear seasonally. Keep an eye out for common signs of their presence, like seeing them on walls or window sills, or detecting their distinctive odor. Regularly inspect common entry points and hiding places, such as cracks around windows, doors, and utility pipes. Maintaining preventative measures, like sealing cracks and using screens on windows and vents, is essential. If you notice a significant decrease in sightings over a period of time, especially after seasonal changes, it’s likely that the stink bugs have moved on. However, for complete assurance, consulting a pest control professional for an inspection can confirm their absence.
