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Understanding stink bug infestations

When the temperatures change in the fall, your home can become vulnerable to a stink bug infestation. Once stink bugs gain entrance into your home, a serious stink bug infestation can quickly spread throughout your property.

Getting professional treatment at the earliest sign of stink bug infestation can help to reduce the length of time needed to control the problem. Call Ehrlich today at 800-837-5520 to learn how we can help you get rid of stink bugs using both exterior and interior treatment options.

What causes a stink bug infestation?

A stink bug infestation often begins when these pests search for warmth as temperatures drop. In the fall, stink bugs look for cracks and gaps around windows, doors, siding, and vents to find a safe place to spend the winter.

Homes with easy access points or outdoor lighting that attracts insects are more likely to experience an infestation, as stink bugs are drawn to light and warmth indoors. Once inside, they hide in attics, basements, and wall voids until spring.

Sealing entry points and reducing outdoor lighting can help prevent these pests from gathering near your home, but if you suspect they’ve already moved in, it’s best to contact us for help before the problem spreads.

Are stink bug infestations dangerous to humans or pets?

While a stink bug infestation can be unpleasant, these insects don’t bite, sting, or spread disease. Due to their strong odor and large numbers, they are mostly considered a nuisance pest.

However, stink bugs can trigger mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly when they are crushed or handled. Pets may also be irritated by the odor or by chasing and eating the bugs, which can cause temporary drooling or an upset stomach. If you or your pet experience any symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

Struggling with stink bugs?

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Recognise the signs of a stink bug infestation

You can actively look for typical signs of stink bug infestations in your home, such as their distinctive smell or the presence of live or dead bugs.

  • Live stink bugs - if you’ve spotted a live stink bug in your home, you may be experiencing an infestation as the brown marmorated stink bug is known to invade structures in large numbers.

  • Dead stink bugs –you often see dead stink bugs near used entry points. These include doors, window frames, utility pipes, and chimneys.

  • Foul odors - true to their name, stink bugs release a foul-smelling odor when threatened or handled. This odorous chemical toxin is a defensive mechanism used primarily to discourage predators, like birds and lizards, from eating them.

Protect yourself from stink bugs with Ehrlich Pest Control

The most effective way to protect your home from a stink bug infestation is with professional help. Our technicians are trained to locate and treat problem areas, both interior and exterior, targeting areas where stink bugs enter and hide.

To help keep your home protected, it is critical to remain vigilant against the pests all year long. The year round pest protection plan provides homeowners with regularly scheduled inspections and protection against 39 of the most common pests, including stink bugs¹.

DIY methods, like vacuuming or sealing cracks, may provide short-term relief, but to ensure lasting protection and address the root cause, it’s best to have our team inspect and treat your property.

Have you spotted stink bugs?

Call Ehrlich today for advice and to schedule a stink bugs inspection of your home or business or contact us now.

Frequently asked questions

Stink bugs are most active in the fall when they move indoors seeking warmth, and in the spring when they emerge again to go outside.

 

Typical signs of stink bug infestation include seeing live or dead bugs around windows, vents, or attics, and noticing their strong, musty odor.

Stink bugs don’t damage structures, but they can stain walls or curtains when crushed and may harm garden plants or crops outdoors.

Seal gaps around windows, doors, and vents before fall, and schedule routine inspections with Ehrlich to help protect your home from future infestations.

¹Treatments and Covered Pests defined in your Plan. Limitations apply. See Plan for details.

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