What are Stink Bugs?
Stink bugs are easily recognizable because of the triangular shaped plate on their backs, which explains the common nickname "Shield bugs." They belong to the order hemiptera. They are appropriately named because stink bugs have small glands located on their thorax that are capable of emitting an offensive odor. Stink bugs are usually different shades of brown and exist in the United States as well as in various parts of the world. They are recognized by a triangular shaped plate on their backs. Adults are approximately 17 mm long (25 mm = one inch) and are almost as wide as they are long.
Why do I have them?
Stink bugs are considered agricultural pests as well as nuisance pests. They may enter homes and businesses from cracks under or behind baseboards, around window and door trim and around exhaust fans or lights in ceilings in search for plants and fruit to feed on.
Are they dangerous?
Even though these stink bugs are not harmful to humans and do not reproduce inside structures such as houses, they cause concern when they become active in fall and spring. If many of them are squashed or vacuumed up, their smell can be quite apparent.
