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What You Need to Know About Stinkbugs This Winter
Brian Zahringer • January 14, 2025
Understanding Stinkbugs, Their Habits, Threats, and How to Keep Them Out
As temperatures drop, many pests seek shelter indoors, and stinkbugs are no exception. Known for their distinct odor and invasive tendencies, these shield-shaped bugs often find their way into homes during the colder months. In this blog, we’ll explore how stinkbugs survive the winter, whether they pose a threat, and what you can do to keep them at bay.
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How Do Stinkbugs Live in the Winter?
Stinkbugs
are not built to withstand freezing temperatures, so they enter a state called diapause during the winter months. In diapause, their metabolism slows, allowing them to conserve energy until spring.
To stay warm, stinkbugs seek shelter in protected spaces, such as:
- Cracks in walls, windows, and doors
- Attics, basements, and crawlspaces
- Inside insulation or behind siding
While they are not actively feeding or reproducing during winter, their presence can still be a nuisance, especially when they emerge prematurely on warmer days.
Are Stinkbugs Harmful?
Stinkbugs are not directly harmful to humans or pets:
- Non-Toxic: They do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases.
- Agricultural Pests: Their primary threat is to crops, as they feed on fruits, vegetables, and plants during the growing season.
However, stinkbugs can still be problematic indoors:
- Odor: When threatened or crushed, stinkbugs release a foul-smelling chemical as a defense mechanism.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience mild skin irritation or respiratory issues from their secretions.
- Infestation Risk: While not dangerous, their sheer numbers can make them unwelcome houseguests.
Do Stinkbugs Prefer Certain Colors?
Yes, stinkbugs are attracted to specific colors, particularly lighter ones:
White and Light Colors: Stinkbugs are drawn to white, light yellow, and pale shades. These colors resemble the brightness of sunlight, which they naturally seek for warmth and shelter.
Shiny Surfaces: Reflective or shiny surfaces may also attract stinkbugs, as they mimic open skies or water sources.
On the other hand, stinkbugs tend to avoid:
Dark Colors: Shades like black, navy blue, or dark green are less appealing to stinkbugs, as they don’t resemble the bright spaces they favor.
How to Use This Information
- Avoid Bright Outdoor Lighting: Use yellow or amber bulbs in exterior fixtures, as they are less attractive to stinkbugs.
- Consider Paint Choices: If repainting your home, opt for darker exterior colors to make your property less appealing to stinkbugs.
- Close Curtains: Reduce visible light from windows at night by keeping curtains or blinds close
How to Prevent Stinkbugs from Invading Your Home
The best way to avoid a stinkbug infestation is to take preventative measures:
Seal Entry Points: Use caulk to seal cracks around windows, doors, and utility openings.
Install Screens: Ensure all windows, vents, and chimneys are properly screened.
Repair Damage: Fix holes in siding, weatherstripping, and door sweeps.
Reduce Attractants: Turn off outdoor lights at night, as stinkbugs are drawn to them.
Use Natural Repellents: Essential oils like clove or mint can deter stinkbugs when sprayed around entry points.
What to Do If You Have Stinkbugs
If stinkbugs have already invaded, avoid squishing them to prevent their odor from spreading. Instead:
- Call the Experts: For large infestations, professional pest control services like BugBoss The X-Terminator can provide effective solutions.
- Vacuum Them Up: Use a vacuum cleaner with a bag to capture and dispose of them.
- Trap Them: Place sticky traps near windows and other hotspots.
Keep Stinkbugs Out with BugBoss The X-Terminator
Don’t let stinkbugs ruin your winter comfort. At BugBoss The X-Terminator, we specialize in keeping your home pest-free year-round. Our team offers safe and effective solutions tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and reclaim your space from unwanted invaders!
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