Pest Guide : What Is a Stink Bug?

The brown marmorated stink bug is a type of stink bug that is native to Asia but has become an invasive species in many parts of the world, including North America and Europe. Here are some characteristics of the brown marmorated stink bug:

• Size: Adult brown marmorated stink bugs are approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch (12-17 mm) long.
• Color: The bugs are brownish-gray in color and have a marbled or mottled pattern on their backs that resembles a "shield." They have alternating light and dark bands on their antennae, and their legs are brown with faint white bands.
• Shape: Like other stink bugs, the brown marmorated stink bug has a characteristic shield-shaped body. Its body is slightly convex and widest at the shoulders.
• Odor: When disturbed or crushed, brown marmorated stink bugs emit a strong, unpleasant odor.

Overall, the brown marmorated stink bug is fairly distinctive in appearance, and its shield-shaped body and marbled pattern are usually enough to identify it.

The stink bug is an agricultural pest that feeds on a wide variety of plants. Some of the plants that they commonly feed on include fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, and berries, as well as vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and beans. They also feed on ornamental plants and crops such as soybeans and corn.

Stink bugs use their sharp mouthparts to pierce the outer layer of the plants and feed on their juices. This can cause significant damage to crops, leading to yield losses and reduced crop quality.

Stink bugs are known to overwinter in homes and buildings, where they seek shelter and warmth during the colder months. In the spring, they emerge and begin to feed on plants, causing damage to crops. They are also found in natural habitats such as forests and meadows, where they feed on wild plants.

We often receive calls from clients about stink bugs in the fall as they try to get into homes and when they come out on warm winter days and when they emerge in springtime.