Stink bugs aren't common pests for Connecticut homes, so how do you handle an infestation? Aside from brown marmorated stink bugs, these insects are pretty harmless for the majority of the year if you're not a farmer or gardener. Stink bugs infest homes for only one reason, though, which is why you need to learn a little more about them. Their odorous inclinations make them horrible houseguests, so it's always best to know how to keep them away.
Should I Be Worried About Stink Bugs In Connecticut?
While they aren't dangerous pests, stink bugs are still problematic around Connecticut homes. Stink bugs hide within wall voids, attics, and crawl spaces when they infest buildings, and many of them die during their stay. Dead bed bugs attract scavenger pests such as cockroaches, crickets, rodents, flies, and ants. They also stain walls and linens with their excrement and produce a horrible smell when they're startled. Any sudden disturbance will scare stink bugs, making an infestation a ticking time bomb of stench.
What Bugs Are Often Mistaken For Stink Bugs?
Every insect has its look-alike, and stink bugs are no different. These bugs are regularly mistaken for our smelly invaders:
- Squash bugs
- Western conifer seed bugs
- Kissing bugs
- Boxelder bugs
- Leaf-footed bugs
- Assassin bugs
These insects may look like stink bugs at first glance, but they're much longer and thinner in comparison. Some of them produce a noxious odor, but for the most part, these bugs prefer staying outside.
Why Do I Suddenly Have Stink Bugs In My Home?
There's only one reason Connecticut homeowners struggle with stink bug problems – overwintering. These pungent pests are more than happy to spend spring and summer outside but stink bugs run for shelter when the temperature drops in the fall. During the winter, stink bugs hide in trees, leaf piles, and under rocks, but homes offer much more stable accommodations for their extended slumber. If the exterior of your home isn't sealed up tight, stink bugs will find a way to sneak inside. That's why you need to know how to keep stink bugs away from your home and property:
- Seal up any cracks and holes around the exterior of your home, such as the foundation, siding, window frames, door frames, and around pipes and wires.
- Repair and replace torn screening in windows, worn-down weather stripping, and damaged door sweeps.
- Address moisture issues in and around your home – aerate your lawn, fix leaky pipes, clean the gutters, and repair extensive water damage.
- Keep your lawn adequately cleaned and manicured to remove harborage points for stink bugs.
- Stink bugs are attracted to light, so minimize outdoor lighting around your home.
If you already have a stink bug infestation in your home, don't seal up entry points around your property. Stink bugs hide within wall voids and crawl spaces, so closing up their exits will keep them sealed inside.
The Best Way To Keep Stink Bugs Out Of Your Home
Prevention won't always keep pests like stink bugs away from your home, so the best way to get rid of stink bugs and protect your home from these nuisance pests is with reliable Connecticut pest control from our pest experts at Big Blue Bug Solutions. We use environmentally responsible techniques in our pest control treatments, we stay up-to-date on all the latest pest control advancements and always guarantee our treatments. We'll make sure your home stays pest-free all year long, so get in contact with us today to learn more about our prevention and extermination services.