Stink bugs are quite prevalent in Marietta, but many people are unaware of what causes their infestations. A lot of folks don't know how to identify them, much less how to deal with them. Find out more about these insects, and discover how professional pest control in Marietta can help.
How To Identify A Stink Bug
Stink bug invasions in the United States began in the 1990s, when these pests came out of machinery and shipping crates from Asia. They are around 3/4 of an inch long and have a shield-shaped body. Brown marmorated stink bugs are a mottled brown with bands on their antennae and wings. Juvenile stink bugs are distinctive; they are yellow or white with red eyes.
Why You Don't Want Stink Bugs Hanging Around Your Home
Stink bugs in Georgia aren't known for spreading diseases or harming humans or animals. They also don't typically damage homes or structures. What they will ruin are trees, plants, crops, and gardens. They'll pierce vegetables, fruit, and organic matter with their prickly mouthparts. By absorbing the internal fluids, they'll destroy greenery and landscaping. Stink bugs will also go after the following:
- Tomatoes
- Corn
- Green peppers
- Blackberries
- Peaches
- Soybeans
- Lima beans
- Apples
While your residence itself won't be impacted by stink bugs, your garden could be.
Factors That Attract Stink Bugs To Your Home
Aside from the plants they consume, lights and cooler temperatures are what draw stink bugs to properties. They'll shelter themselves in your space after crawling through openings in doors, windows, screens, siding, and foundations. You may spot them in structural voids or around walls, or the pests might be in your crawlspace or attic. Stink bugs migrate in droves and are especially smelly upon death. Sightings on warm days and continual odors signal an infestation.
Outdoors, stink bugs may overwinter beneath your porch or in a ditch. Some will gather near ground cover, weeds, and rocks too. When they're ready to lay eggs, they'll do so near vegetation.
The Best Way To Eliminate A Stink Bug Infestation
Insecticides from retail stores and "do-it-yourself" techniques will fail to end your stink bug problem. These options aren't crafted to handle infestations, just surface issues. Don't waste your money and time on these possibly toxic items. For prevention, take these steps:
- Seal holes in foundations.
- Attach weatherstripping to all exterior doors.
- Make sure screens for windows and vents are intact and clean.
- Keep vegetation several feet away from your house.
- Routinely inspect plants and trees.
- Regularly examine foundations that are sun-exposed; stink bugs might collect there.
- Use outdoor lights on a limited basis.
At ProCare Pest Services, we offer affordable and effective treatments, including eco-friendly options. Our expert technicians will eliminate the stink bugs on your property, backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Get a free quote when you call today!