Stink Bugs

In Virginia, we have thirty-six different varieties of stink bugs and some have become significant pests for homeowners in the area. Some of the more common varieties are the brown marmorated (BMSB), the brown stink bug, the green stink bug, and the harlequin bug. Though the coloration changes with variety, stink bugs all have the same shape. They have what looks like a five-sided shield on their back, 6 legs, and 2 antennae near the top of their head. Depending on the variety and age, stink bugs can be almost any color, ranging from red, orange, brown, green, and various multicolors.

 

Stink bugs release chemicals to call other stink bugs to the area. They generally become active in the springtime and can do a lot of damage to your plants, gardens and other vegetation. Once temperatures start to drop in the late summer and autumn, they will seek shelter inside your home with more tenacity.

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​Stink bugs will produce a foul-smelling odor when they are threatened or disturbed, likely as a protection from predators. They have a scent gland on their abdomen that releases chemicals, and some can even spray the chemicals away from their bodies for several inches. The smell can last for hours, even all day, especially if you get it on your clothes or carpets.

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To learn even more about stink bugs, check out our blog post