The weather is slowly starting to get cooler as the season begins to change. While may people in the nation enjoy the cooler weather, stink bugs do not. These little bugs are notorious for sneaking into houses to steal the warmth and shelter of the indoors. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are encouraging everyone to take the necessary steps to prevent infestations of stink bugs both in and around the home.
Thankfully, stink bugs do not bite or sting, but can prove to be a nuisance for homeowners, especially those in the Eastern United States, where they are prone to seek winter shelters.
The NPMA offers the following tips to help prevent stink bug infestation:
- Seal any and all cracks. These include around windows, doors, siding, pipes, behind chimneys, and other openings with caulk.
- Repair or replace damaged window or door screens.
- Limit the use of outdoor lighting. Stink bugs, much like moths, are attracted to lights.
- If you already have a stink bug problem, remove them with a vacuum cleaner and throw the bag away immediately. Doing this prevents odor from permeating the area, as well as keeping any eggs from hatching inside the home.
- If an infestation has developed, contact a licensed pest professional. They will evaluate and assess the severity problem and assist you in any way.