Prairie State Wire

Falling temperatures bring the usual signs of autumn, but they also herald the arrival of stink bugs. These pests, officially known as brown marmorated stink bugs, are native to China and have been in the United States since the late 1990s. They pose a threat to various plants, from residential landscaping to agricultural crops like soybeans, apples, and pears.

Scott Schirmer from the Illinois Department of Agriculture explained that "the ‘stink' is a defense mechanism. So don't smash them and avoid disturbing them too much." He added that while they are a nuisance, they do not harm indoor plants or other items indoors.

During summer, stink bugs feed on fruits and vegetables. According to Kacie Athey from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, "they cannot tolerate extremely cold temperatures and seek enclosed areas to overwinter in," making homes an attractive option for these pests.

Homeowners might find these insects gathering on screen doors or hidden throughout their homes. The use of pesticides indoors is discouraged as they are ineffective against stink bugs and leave unhelpful residues.

The University of Illinois Extension suggests several measures for controlling stink bugs at home:

- Use a vacuum cleaner to remove adults or place them in soapy water.

- Caulk cracks and crevices around the house in early fall.

- Repair windows and install door sweeps to prevent entry from outside.