Stink bugs and boxelder bugs are two common pests that commonly cause problems when they enter homes during the colder seasons in search of warmth & shelter. While these two types of bugs are totally different species, they are sometimes confused for each other because of their somewhat similar appearance and behavior. In this article, we’ll talk about how you can identify the differences between these two types of bugs and give you some tips on how you can prevent them from living in your home during the winter!
Stink Bugs
Stink bugs are shaped somewhat like a medieval shield, with a flatter “shoulder” or upper-torso area, rounder mid-section, and pointy back end. These insects, also known as the “brown or green marmorated stink bug” are brown/black/tan/green in color and are called stink bugs because of the unpleasant smell they give off when they are killed. While stink bugs are agricultural pests that can damage crops, they only become a problem for most people when they enter homes in search of refuge when the weather starts to cool off. Stink bugs are most commonly found around the windows and doors of homes. If you discover these insects in your home, you should remember that they release an unpleasant odor when they feel threatened!
Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are oval-shaped insects that are often found on or around boxelder trees (also known as the ash-leaved maple), which are a tree native to the central and eastern United States. Boxelder bugs are usually around ½” long with six legs and black bodies that have orangish-red markings on their backs. Boxelder bugs do not sting or bite humans or cause damage to the area where they are found, making them more of a nuisance than anything else. As the weather starts to get chillier, these insects seek shelter in homes, sheds, garages, etc. where they can spend the winter in a warm, safe place. If you haven’t noticed these bugs in your home but you have noticed red stains on your curtains, drapes, or clothing, boxelder bugs’ fecal matter could be the culprit.
Prevention & Treatment For Stink Bugs & Boxelder Bugs
The best way to prevent stink bugs & boxelder bugs from entering your home is to make sure that there are no cracks or openings in your house that could be allowing them to find their way in. Make sure to replace or fix all tears in screen, seal openings in window and door framing using caulk, and make sure there are no cracks or gaps in your home’s siding. If you do discover a large number of these insects in your home and are having trouble getting rid of them, the best thing to do is contact a pest control professional! A pest control specialist will not only solve your insect problem, but they’ll also make sure that these pests won’t come back!
Contact Pied Piper Pest Control!
If you are dealing with an insect problem in your New Orleans area home, contact our team at Pied Piper Pest Control! Our licensed pest control professionals, who have years of experience dealing with these pests, can remove them and prevent them from coming back! Give us a call at (504) 366-1333 or fill out the contact form on our website to get in touch with us!