(LOOTPRESS) – As temperatures cool down in the fall, many people across the U.S. start noticing a familiar pest: the brown marmorated stink bug. These insects, native to East Asia, have become an annual nuisance in many regions, especially as they seek warmth and shelter indoors ahead of the colder months.
During the fall, they enter homes through small cracks, open windows, and doors as they look for a warm place to hibernate over the winter. Their presence can be overwhelming, as they tend to congregate in large numbers. While stink bugs are harmless to humans, their odor, released as a defense mechanism when disturbed, can make their invasion particularly unpleasant.
According to agricultural experts, the weather plays a significant role in determining the severity of stink bug infestations. Milder fall temperatures can delay their migration indoors, while a sudden cold snap may lead to a sudden surge of bugs seeking warmth. Additionally, regions with warm, humid summers often experience higher stink bug populations as these conditions favor their reproduction.
To prevent stink bugs from entering your home, experts recommend sealing cracks, installing screens on windows and doors, and using weather stripping. If they do get inside, it’s best to remove them carefully without crushing them, as that’s when they release their foul odor. Vacuuming or gently trapping them in a container are effective removal methods.
As fall progresses, pest control companies across the country brace for increased calls from homeowners seeking relief from these uninvited guests. Though stink bugs are not dangerous, their seasonal invasion has become an annual reminder that cooler weather is on its way.