Why are stink bugs so bad in Knoxville? Fall is just around the corner and the shorter days and falling temperatures motivate stink bugs to run for cover . If they sheltered beneath tree bark or mulch, that would be one thing, but they prefer moving into your home over winter, piling into cracks and crevices by the thousands . Yuck.

The brown marmorated stink bug ( Halyomorpha halys ) is an insect in the family Pentatomidae, native to China, Japan, the Korean Peninsula, and Taiwan. ^{In September 1998 it was collected in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where it is believed to have been accidentally introduced. The nymphs and adults of the brown marmorated stink bug feed on over 100 species of plants, including many agricultural crops}

INVADING YOUR HOME

Perhaps the biggest problem for homeowners is when hordes of the little stinkers seek shelter in homes and structures, similar to the behavior of the multicolored Asian lady beetle. Stink bugs don’t harm people, but can give off a very unpleasant odor when crushed or vacuumed.

HOW TO MANAGE

Barrier exclusion is very important. Seal and caulk areas that may give access to the wall or house. If this is not completely successful and stink bugs are still entering your home, seal or caulk around baseboards, windowsills, and any points where you see them invading your castle. When vacuuming up the little devils, some people use a dedicated shop vac to avoid stinking up their household vacuum cleaners .

HOW TO EXCLUDE:

 Why are stink bugs so bad in Knoxville? Contact us (833) 220-1001 —the crew here at 247 Local Pest Control will be happy to treat your property and help you control these little mobile stink bombs!