The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys, has become a prevalent household pest across North America and other regions. These insects are easily recognized by their distinctive shield-shaped bodies, which are typically mottled brownish-gray in color, often with alternating light and dark bands on their antennae and the edges of their abdomen. The “stink” in their name comes from the pungent odor they release as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened or are crushed. This odor can resemble coriander, cilantro, or even a sulfurous aroma similar to rotten vegetables.
Stink Bug Flight Capabilities
Adult brown marmorated stink bugs can fly. They have two pairs of wings: leathery forewings that protect the membranous hindwings used for flight. When at rest, these wings fold over their bodies, contributing to their characteristic shield-like appearance. While they are capable of flight, stink bugs are generally not considered agile or fast flyers.
Their flight is often described as slow, clumsy, and can produce a distinct buzzing sound. Their clumsiness stems from their bulky bodies and stiff wing structures, which limit their maneuverability. Stink bugs typically engage in short-distance flights, preferring to crawl or walk when possible. Despite their less-than-graceful aerial movements, they can still cover significant distances, with some individuals capable of flying up to 117 kilometers.
Reasons for Flight and Seasonal Patterns
Stink bugs fly for several reasons related to their survival and reproduction. A primary motivation for flight is searching for food sources, as they feed on a wide variety of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and leaves. They also fly to disperse and find mates, particularly during their mating season in spring and summer. Flight also serves as an escape mechanism, allowing them to flee from predators or perceived threats.
Most significantly, stink bugs increase their flight activity in late summer and fall as temperatures drop. During this period, they seek sheltered locations to overwinter, flying towards and entering homes and other structures to escape the cold. They are particularly attracted to warm, sunny spots on buildings, such as south-facing walls. While they may also fly in the spring as they emerge from overwintering sites, their autumn migration into human dwellings is the most noticeable seasonal flight pattern.
Dealing with Stink Bugs in Your Home
Managing stink bugs in your home involves both preventive measures and careful removal techniques. To prevent them from entering, seal cracks and openings around windows, doors, utility lines, and foundations using caulk or foam sealant. Repairing damaged window and door screens and installing door sweeps also block entry points. Ensuring proper ventilation in areas like attics and basements by screening vents can further deter them.
When stink bugs are already inside, avoid crushing them, as this will release their characteristic foul odor. Instead, removal methods should focus on containing them. Vacuuming them up is an effective way to collect them, but the vacuum bag should be disposed of immediately outdoors to prevent the odor from lingering. Another common method is to use a cup and a piece of paper to gently scoop them up and release them outside. Using insecticides indoors is not recommended.