Yes, that’s right there are stink bugs in Rhode Island. These little insects that measure just under an inch can be a really big problem - especially during this time of year. The brown marmorated stink bug is originally from the areas of China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. They were accidentally introduced into the U.S. around 1998 in Pennsylvania and have rapidly spread out from there. They have no natural predators so they pretty much have the run of the place – or so they think.
These little shield-shaped pests have brown shading and measure in at around an inch. They have scent glands located on their abdomen and thorax that will emit a pungent ‘rotten cucumber’ smell when stepped on or squished. Their yellow to yellowish-red eggs can be found on the underside of leaves in groups of about 20-30.
Speaking of leaves, the agricultural industry is at the greatest risk of damage from these odd-looking creatures. They eat almost anything they can get their little ‘jaws’ on including, but not limited to: apples, peaches, figs, beans, soybeans, corn, tomatoes, lima beans, green peppers, grapes, weeds, ornamental plants, and most everything else. They cause extensive damage to farming crops and small gardens alike; and if that is not bad enough, every fall they gather in large numbers on the side of your home or business looking for a way in for the winter.
Once one of those sneaky little pests finds a way in, they inevitably inform all of their ‘friends’ so they don’t have to winter alone. You will see them emerging from baseboards, ceiling fans, light fixtures, door frames – you name it. They really enjoy your warm, cozy home, and it is next to impossible to evict them without the help of a professional once you have let them in.
There are some things you can do to help make your home less of a target for these creatures such as:
- Caulk doors and around pipes with silicone or latex caulking
- Repair or replace screens on doors and windows
- Fix cracks around windows
- Do not leave doors open without the use of a screen
If you find that your best efforts to keep stink bugs out have failed, call on a professional like us here at Big Blue Bug to help. We have been on the front lines of pest control since 1935, and have built a reputation for excellence. We provide fast, effective, and safe pest solutions and offer many options to fit your personal situation and budget. Give us a call today and your pests will be under control tomorrow.