Some insects are harmless or even beneficial to your home and garden, but others can spell disaster. One such unwelcome visitor is the stink bug —a notorious pest that can wreak havoc on your plants, invade your home in large numbers, and leave behind an unpleasant odor when disturbed. If you spot one of these shield-shaped intruders, it’s time to act fast before an occasional sighting turns into a full-blown infestation.
Here’s everything you need to know about stink bugs, why they’re problematic, and how to get rid of them for good.
Why Stink Bugs Are a Problem
- Destructive Garden Pests : Stink bugs feed on fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants by piercing the skin and sucking out juices, leaving behind unsightly blemishes and causing crop damage.
- Home Invaders : As the weather cools, stink bugs seek shelter indoors, often gathering on windowsills, walls, and ceilings in alarming numbers.
- Unpleasant Odor : When crushed, scared, or handled, stink bugs release a foul-smelling chemical as a defense mechanism. This odor can linger and be difficult to eliminate.
- Hard to Eliminate : Once inside, stink bugs can be challenging to eradicate due to their ability to hide in cracks and crevices.
How to Identify a Stink Bug
