Stink Bugs
The brown marmorated stink bug is a new insect to eastern Pennsylvania, first collected in Allentown in 1998, but since recorded in 37 counties including Chester and nearly all of our surrounding areas. The stink bug is native of China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan. It has also been identified in the several states other than Pennsylvania, reaching as far west as California and as far south as Tennessee.
What do they look like?
Adult stink bugs are approximately one inch long and are shades of brown in color. They have a "shield" shape and are almost as wide as they are long. The name "stink bug" refers to the odor emitted from their scent glands when they are disturbed, or when squashed.
Are they dangerous to humans? Stink bugs are not known to cause harm to humans, however, they are quickly becoming a nuisance pet both indoors and outside where they are attracted to the outside of houses on warm fall days, searching for a warm winter home. Stink bugs may reappear on warm winter days but mostly will remain in hiding until the following Spring. Stink bugs do not reproduce once inside a home or building, and do not cause damage to structures.
Are they dangerous to the environment?
In warmer months, stink bugs are drawn to plants, bushes and trees that bear berries or fruits. They have been found to feed on blackberry, sweet corn, field corn and soybeans as well as peaches and apples. Damage attributed to stink bugs has been reported in peach and apple orchards and certain types of garden plants.(Penn State University)
How do I get rid of them?
The best way to protect your home from stink bugs is to minimize entry points. Make sure cracks around windows, doors, siding and utility pipes are properly caulked. Keep doors and windows closed or properly screened. Even a well-sealed home may still experience stink bugs - as they can also get in through attic fans, chimneys and other entry sources. Some homeowners may use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the stink bugs. however, the vacuum may begin to absorb the pungent odor of the bugs after a period of time.
For information on pesticide elimination of stink bugs, contact a certified pest control operator.
For more info go to the source of this article - http://dsf.chesco.org/health/cwp/view.asp?a=3&Q=649267
