Stink bugs, small shield-shaped insects, often become household nuisances, particularly during cooler months when they seek shelter indoors. While bothersome, they are generally not considered dangerous to humans, pets, or property. Their primary threat is economic, impacting agriculture.
Harm to Humans
Stink bugs do not bite humans; their mouthparts are designed for piercing plants, not skin. Any attempt to “poke” human skin is rare, feels like a harmless pinprick, and is a mistaken action. They do not possess venom or stingers, nor do they transmit diseases to humans.
While generally harmless, some individuals may experience mild allergic reactions to the defensive compounds released by stink bugs. Symptoms can include skin irritation, such as itchy, red bumps or rashes, especially if direct contact occurs with a crushed bug. Allergic responses may also manifest as sneezing, a runny nose, or eye irritation from inhaling the odor. These reactions are usually temporary and not severe, though rare instances of more pronounced symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing have been reported in highly sensitive individuals.
Harm to Pets
Pets sometimes encounter or ingest stink bugs, which can cause minor, temporary health issues. Consuming one or a few stink bugs is unlikely to cause serious toxicity. However, the defensive chemicals released by the bugs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, excessive drooling, or oral irritation.
These symptoms are typically self-limiting and resolve without intervention. Overall, stink bugs are not considered poisonous to pets, and long-term health effects are uncommon.
Harm to Plants and Property
Stink bugs are agricultural pests, posing a threat to various crops. They feed by inserting their needle-like mouthparts into plants, including fruits, vegetables, and field crops, sucking out plant juices. This feeding activity can cause physical damage such as dimpled or necrotic areas on fruit surfaces, leaf stippling, stunted growth, and reduced yield. Economic losses for farmers due to reduced crop marketability and yield can be substantial.
Beyond agriculture, stink bugs become a common household nuisance when they seek shelter indoors during cooler months. They do not chew on wood, reproduce indoors, or cause structural damage to property. However, their presence can be annoying, and if crushed, their defensive secretions can stain porous surfaces like fabrics, leading to minor cosmetic issues.
Their Defense Mechanism
Stink bugs are named for the foul-smelling liquid they release when disturbed, threatened, or crushed. This fluid is emitted from glands located on their thorax. Its primary purpose is a defense mechanism to deter predators, such as birds and lizards.
The smell is unpleasant, often described as pungent, resembling cilantro, coriander, or even burnt rubber. While off-putting, the odor is not toxic or harmful to humans or pets. If the fluid comes into contact with skin or eyes, it can cause temporary irritation, but this is typically mild and not a serious concern.