Stink Bugs Could Become the Pest of Fall

Janay Rickwalder

If mosquitoes were this summer’s worst pest, stink bugs seem to be making a great case for earning the title of "Pest of the Fall."

From Charlotte to Portland and everywhere in between, these smelly bugs have been invading homes across much of the country in recent weeks, leaving many homeowners holding their noses and running for the door.

Stink bugs are an invasive species, meaning they are not native to the United States. They were brought into the U.S. from Eastern Asia, and have now been reported throughout the Northeast United States, as well as the Pacific Northwest, Midwest and South regions.

Lucky for homeowners, this pest does not pose serious property or safety threats; however, its tendency to invade homes in high numbers can be a nuisance.

To prevent a stink bug infestation, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) recommends sealing cracks around the outside of the home and keeping outdoor lighting to a minimum. If stink bugs have already found a way inside, homeowners should use a vacuum cleaner to aid in their removal and dispose of the bag immediately to prevent odor from permeating the area.