Stink Bugs in New York
While household pests are commonly assumed to be roaches or bed bugs, stink bugs are no less common and nuisance-creating. As condensed and populated as New York is, it is no surprise that stink bugs enjoy calling this place home.
What Does A Stink Bug Look Like?
The most common stink bug is known as the brown marmorated stink bug, an invasive species from Asia introduced to North America in the 1990s. They are just over half an inch in length with tan and brown shield-shaped bodies. Like most insects, they have six legs, but they also can have dark bands on their wings and light bands on their antennae.
What Do Stink Bugs Smell Like?
When threatened or crushed, stink bugs give off the smell that gives them their namesake. It is considered to be a smell that, to humans, smells like herbs, including cilantro, mixed with an unpleasant chemical.
Do Stink Bugs Bite?
While it is clearly not pleasant to find sink bugs in your home, they are generally harmless. They are not attracted to flesh and do not bite or sting like other household pests.
What Attracts Stink Bugs To Your House?
Stink bugs are attracted to your home in the way most bugs are—they’re looking for a safe place to hang out! During winter, they are looking for warm places to hibernate, which unfortunately often leads them into your homes. They can also be attracted by the smell of fruits left out, as that is their primary source of food.
How To Keep Away Stink Bugs
The best way to prevent stink bugs from being a problem is to make sure they can’t get in. Your best bet for achieving this is the following:
- Sealing doors and windows with weather strips.
- Checking regularly for holes in screens.
- Closing windows if screens are not an option.
- Checking for openings in walls and covering them with caulk, steel wool, or mess if found.
How To Get Rid of Stink Bugs
There are several at-home remedies that are commonly used to remove stink bugs from one’s home. They include:
- Using essential oils, neem oil, garlic spray, and spraying interior doors and windows.
- Rubbing dryer sheets on window sills or other entry points.
- Picking them up gently and carrying them outside in napkins.
If the above options do not resolve the problem, your best bet is to contact a licensed exterminator, including our highly effective treatments here at Suburban. We offer a variety of treatment options for houses, apartments, and even local businesses. Learn more about our pest control treatments.
FAQ About Stink Bugs in New York
While stink bugs can come off as gross and unwanted, they are generally the least dangerous of any pests that can intrude on your home. The following FAQ answers some of the most common questions about stink bugs, so all your needs are in one place.
Where Do Stink Bugs Hide In Your House?
Stink bugs enjoy congregating in the warmer parts of your home, mostly the southern or western sides as that is where the most sunlight is. During the colder months, stink bugs will often hibernate within walls or attics, or other places they are likely not to be disturbed.
Are Stink Bugs Harmful to Humans?
While stink bugs can appear as nasty and unpleasant as any other pest, the only real harm they can do is to your nose and your peace of mind. Stink bugs do not bite or carry diseases as many other pests do, and they cannot damage your home. That doesn’t make them any less enjoyable to have, however
When Are Stink Bugs Active?
Stink bugs are generally active around fall, as they are looking for a place to hibernate. There is a drop in their activity in winter, but once spring rolls around and the weather warms up, they exit hibernation, along with almost all other hibernating animals. They are mostly active during the day, as they are attracted to natural light sources.
What Kills Stink Bugs Instantly?
Surprisingly, the most effective killing technique is the most mundane—drowning them. A stink bug will likely drop from its location when it feels threatened. Putting a jar underneath it with warm soapy water and vinegar is a surefire way to kill them nearly instantly.