Stink bugs are common household invaders that often prompt concerns due to their unusual appearance. These insects do not possess mouthparts capable of biting humans or pets. Their primary interaction with humans involves releasing a distinctive defensive odor when disturbed. Stink bugs are more of a nuisance than a danger.
Understanding Stink Bug Mouthparts
Stink bugs are equipped with specialized piercing-sucking mouthparts, a straw-like proboscis or stylet. This apparatus is designed for feeding on plant sap, fruit juices, and other plant tissues. Their mouthparts cannot pierce human skin. Unlike mosquitoes or bed bugs, stink bugs do not feed on blood, making human biting irrelevant to their habits. Their diet consists of a wide variety of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and field crops, which they damage by extracting nutrients.
Their True Defense Mechanism
When threatened, stink bugs activate their primary defense mechanism: emitting a foul-smelling chemical. This odor is released from glands on the underside of their thorax, between their legs, or on their abdomen. The pungent smell comes primarily from trans-2-decenal and trans-2-octenal, which are aldehydes.
The odor deters predators like birds, lizards, and spiders. People describe the smell in various ways, often comparing it to cilantro, coriander, sulfur, ammonia, or rotting fruit. This strong scent can linger for hours, particularly when released indoors or on fabrics.
Safe Removal and Prevention
Encountering stink bugs indoors requires careful handling to avoid triggering their defensive odor. Gently sweep them into a container or use a vacuum cleaner for effective removal. If vacuuming, use a bagged vacuum and dispose of the bag immediately outdoors, as the odor can permeate the vacuum. An alternative is a soapy water trap: fill a dish with water and a few drops of dish soap, place it under a light to attract the bugs, causing them to fall in and drown.
Preventing stink bugs from entering homes involves sealing potential entry points, especially during late summer and fall when they seek warmth. Inspect and seal cracks around windows, doors, and foundations with caulk. Repair damaged window screens or vents to block access. Reducing outdoor clutter like leaf piles and wood near the home can also make the area less appealing.