Stink bugs, recognized by their distinctive shield-shaped bodies, are common across the United States. These insects, particularly the brown marmorated stink bug, are prevalent in many regions, raising questions about their winter fate. This article explores how stink bugs navigate colder months and what this means for homeowners.
How Stink Bugs Survive Winter
Stink bugs do not die when winter arrives; instead, they enter a state of dormancy known as diapause. This physiological change is similar to hibernation, where their metabolism significantly slows, and activity levels drop considerably. During diapause, stink bugs do not feed or reproduce, conserving energy to endure cold temperatures.
This reduced metabolic rate allows them to survive on stored energy reserves accumulated during warmer months. While largely inactive, they can still move if disturbed. Their ability to enter diapause and seek sheltered locations allows them to survive harsh winter conditions.
Common Overwintering Locations
As temperatures decline, stink bugs actively seek sheltered environments for winter. Outdoors, they commonly find refuge under leaf litter, rocks, woodpiles, or peeling bark of dead trees. Dead trees with peeling bark are favored natural sites, offering protection from extreme cold.
Indoors, they seek protection from elements within homes and other structures. They can be found congregating in cracks, crevices, wall voids, attics, and basements. These indoor locations provide a stable, warmer environment, ideal for surviving winter. Stink bugs may also enter homes through openings around windows, doors, and chimneys, often drawn to warmth radiating from buildings.
Spring Emergence
With spring and rising temperatures, stink bugs emerge from dormancy and overwintering sites. This emergence occurs from late March through April. Upon emerging, they seek food and mates to begin a new reproductive cycle.
Adult stink bugs become active, flying and feeding on various plants and fruits. They lay eggs to produce new generations. This renewed activity marks the end of their overwintering period and the start of their most active season.
Preventing Indoor Invasions
Preventing stink bugs from entering homes involves sealing potential entry points. Inspecting and sealing cracks and openings around windows, doors, and foundations helps. Using caulk or weather stripping closes these small gaps.
Repairing damaged window and door screens also blocks access, as does sealing around utility line entry points, vents, and chimneys. Taking these measures before colder weather sets in can reduce the likelihood of indoor stink bug invasions. Limiting outdoor lighting, which can attract them, is an additional preventive tip.