Stink Bug Traps
General Information About Stink Bugs
Stink bugs can be serious household nuisances. Many species are relatively large insects—adult stink bugs can reach almost 2 cm in length. What’s worse, if they are threatened, stink bugs produce a chemical that smells bad (that’s where they get their name).
Stink bugs are actually outdoor pests. Most stink bugs feed on plants, seeds, nuts and fruit. In large numbers, they can cause serious damage to a crop in a garden or an orchard. They can also damage ornamental plants in home landscapes.
In late summer, some stink bug species start seeking a place to spend the winter. Outside, they spend the winter under stones, ground cover or clumps of weeds. In neighborhoods, stink bugs gather in houses for warmth. Many of them find cracks or openings that allow them to get inside the house.
The stink bugs spend the winter inside the walls or in the attic or crawl space of the home. In the spring, the bugs become active and start trying to get outside. Some of them find their way into the living space. Homeowners discover stink bugs on the walls and windows of their home.
Types of Stink Bug Traps
Sticky traps are a common type of insect trap. Many people use them to control crawling pests like cockroaches. However, since stink bugs are good fliers, they may not come in contact with the trap and can quickly overwhelm the trap in large numbers.
Many homeowners use a vacuum cleaner to remove stink bugs from the walls and windows of their homes. The vacuum can be emptied outside. If the vacuum has a bag, it can be removed outdoors and be placed in the trash. After the vacuum is emptied, the odor of the bugs may remain for some time.
Many homeowners feel that the best solution is to prevent stink bugs from invading the home. A careful inspection outdoors will reveal cracks and other openings that insects can use as entryways.
Caulking is good for sealing cracks around doors and windows. Weather stripping helps seal gaps under exterior doors. Vents on crawl spaces and attics can be protected with screens. Torn window screens should also be repaired.
Challenges of Control
Pest control professionals can develop a strategy to best combat these invaders. When appropriate, they can select the materials that will make the most effective barrier. The pest control specialist can also make these applications if needed.