Stink Bugs
Halyomorpha halys
Stink bugs invade homes in large numbers during the fall and release a foul odor when disturbed.
Stink Bugs Identification Guide
Physical Characteristics
Stink bugs are shield-shaped insects, typically about the size of a dime. They have broad bodies with a triangular or semi-oval shape, and their coloration varies from brown and gray to green, depending on the species. Their defining feature is the ability to release a pungent odor from glands located on their thorax when threatened or crushed.
Common Species
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Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys) - Invasive species, most common in homes
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Green Stink Bug (Chinavia hilaris) - Common in gardens and agricultural areas
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Southern Green Stink Bug (Nezara viridula) - More common in warmer months
Stink Bugs Behavior and Biology
Stink bugs primarily feed on plants, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants, piercing the surface to suck out nutrients. They are highly mobile and seek shelter in the fall to overwinter inside homes, often gathering in large numbers on the sunny sides of buildings. In the spring, they emerge to continue their life cycle, laying eggs on plant leaves.
How We Treat for Stink Bugs
Overwintering stink bugs are best managed through preventative treatments. Before the weather turns cold, usually in October, our technicians apply dust treatments in exterior voids such as weep holes, behind siding, and around windows and doors. This creates a barrier that deters entry. If stink bugs have already entered, interior treatments focus on repellent materials around window seals, door frames, and baseboards. In severe cases, dusting within wall voids may be necessary.
Exterior perimeter treatments with a repellent material like Bifen IT provide additional control. However, exclusion is key—sealing cracks, repairing damaged screens, and addressing moisture issues help prevent infestations from recurring.
References
Types of Stink Bugs
Click on any species below to learn more about identification, behavior, and control methods.
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Halyomorpha halys
The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive pest from Asia that invades homes in large numbers during fall and releases a pungent odor when disturbed or crushed.
View identification guide
Brown Stink Bug
Euschistus servus
The brown stink bug is a native North American pest that feeds on crops and occasionally enters homes in fall, releasing a foul odor when disturbed.
View identification guide
Dusky Stink Bug
Euschistus tristigmus
The dusky stink bug is a native North American shield bug commonly found in agricultural areas and gardens. Like other stink bugs, it releases a pungent odor when disturbed and may seek shelter indoors during fall.
View identification guide
Green Stink Bug
Chinavia hilaris
The green stink bug is a native North American shield-shaped insect that invades homes in fall seeking shelter and releases a foul odor when disturbed.
View identification guide
Harlequin Bug
Murgantia histrionica
Harlequin bugs are striking black and orange shield-shaped insects that primarily damage vegetable gardens, especially plants in the cabbage family.
View identification guide
One-Spotted Stink Bug
Euschistus variolarius
The one-spotted stink bug gets its name from the dark spot on the underside of males. Like other stink bugs, it releases a bad odor when disturbed or crushed.
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Rice Stink Bug
Oebalus pugnax
The rice stink bug is a straw-colored, shield-shaped pest native to North America that feeds on grains and grasses and may seek shelter indoors during fall.
View identification guide
Rough Stink Bug
Brochymena spp.
Rough stink bugs are native North American insects with bark-like camouflage that overwinter in homes and are often brought indoors on firewood.
View identification guide
Shield Bugs
Pentatomidae
Shield bugs, named for their distinctive shield-shaped bodies, are common household invaders that release a pungent defensive odor when disturbed. These overwintering pests seek shelter indoors during fall and can congregate in large numbers on sunny exterior walls.
View identification guide
Southern Green Stink Bug
Nezara viridula
The southern green stink bug is a bright green shield-shaped pest that damages crops and invades homes in fall, releasing a pungent odor when disturbed.
View identification guide
Spined Soldier Bug
Podisus maculiventris
The spined soldier bug is a predatory insect in the stink bug family. Learn how to identify this species and tell it apart from pest stink bugs that invade homes.
View identification guideCommon Questions about Stink Bugs
Why do stink bugs invade homes?
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Stink bugs enter homes in the fall to find shelter for the winter. They seek warmth and protection from the cold, often hiding in wall voids and other undisturbed areas.
Do stink bugs cause damage?
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Stink bugs are mostly a nuisance pest. While they can damage crops and gardens, they do not bite, sting, or cause structural damage to homes.
How do I get rid of stink bugs inside my home?
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Once stink bugs have entered a home, vacuuming them up is one of the easiest removal methods. However, preventative treatments in the fall help keep them from entering in the first place.
What happens if I crush a stink bug?
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Crushing a stink bug releases a strong, unpleasant odor as a defense mechanism. It's better to vacuum them or use other non-contact removal methods.
Can I prevent stink bugs from getting inside?
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Yes. Sealing cracks, repairing screens, and applying preventative pest treatments in the fall can significantly reduce stink bug infestations.
How effective is professional treatment for stink bugs?
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Our treatments focus on prevention by applying dusts and repellents before stink bugs enter. If they're already inside, targeted interior treatments and exclusion techniques provide effective control.
More Resources About Stink Bugs
Explore our guides and articles for more information about stink bugs.
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- ›What Do Boxelder Bugs Eat? Complete Maple Tree Diet Guide
- ›Stink Bug vs Bed Bug: Key Differences for VA & MD Homeowners
- ›Fall Bugs Invading Your Home? Learn How to Control Them
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With five years of hands-on experience in the pest control industry, George Schulz is a registered technician with the Virginia Pest Management Association and a proud third-generation professional in a family business that's been protecting homes for over 57 years.
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