Stink bugs are commonly found in homes during the colder months. These invasive insects will enter your home in search of food and shelter during cold weather. They are a greyish brown color, ¾ inches long with six legs. Their body is the shape of a shield or triangular shape. The stink bug received its name from the odor they release when disturbed or crushed. They feed on fruit and fruit leaves. These insects are not dangerous to humans but they are a major nuisance to have in your home. They are, however, dangerous to crops and the agricultural industry.

Stink bugs are commonly found in large groups on the outside of buildings. This can lead to them invading the property during cooler months. Here are three tips to preventing stink bugs from entering your home.

1. Seal up your home: Seal up any cracks and holes around the exterior of your home. Make sure the seals are tight around windows and doors. Seal up any vents, chimneys or pipes. These cracks in the outside of your home can be an easy entrance for stink bugs and other insects looking for shelter.

2. Landscaping: Keep shrubs and trees cut away from your home. Stink bugs will use these as a bridge to get into your home without you noticing. Keeping these landscaping plants away from you home’s exterior will help lower the amount of insects that enter your home.

3. Clean up: keep food (especially fruit) in sealed containers so to not attract any insects. They are looking for an easy meal. If they find an easy meal, they will keep returning to your home.

If you need help preventing stink bugs from entering your home, contact a professional exterminator to help insect proof your home for the long, winter months. They will be able to set up a plan to help eliminate insects from entering your home. They will inspect your home for any easy entrances for insects. Then they will help you seal up your home from these invaders. Last they will eradicate any current invaders and help you keep them away. If you see stink bugs in your home, the best thing to do is vacuum them up. Make sure to empty the vacuum bag in the trash and take out the trash after vacuuming them up. For more information on how to get rid of stink bugs, contact the professionals at Schendel today!