Stink Bugs & Lady Beetles
Similarities
What do Stink Bugs and Lady Beetles have in common?
They belong outside and they stink!
Lady Bug Species
Little red spotted ladybugs fall under a few species: Asian Lady Beetles, Ladybugs, Ladybird beetles, etc.. and for the most part they are beneficial because they feed on scales and aphids in our trees and ornamental landscapes but when the temperatures begin to drop, they often seek shelter in structures like homes and businesses. When these beetles enter to “overwinter” in large numbers they can become a real nuisance and in large numbers emit an unpleasant musty odor and some species release a foul-smelling yellow substance as a common defense mechanism.
Stink Bug Species
Multiple species of the infamous Stink Bug usually overshadow the Lady Beetles when it comes to smelly home invaders. The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug can be found in high numbers in and around structures as temperatures drop. While temperature changes are a major reason for a Stink bugs home invasion some species can find their way indoors on fall garden produce like squash and pumpkins. The next time you are picking out your favorite pumpkin for fall decorating see if you can spot a stink bug or two.
We'll Get Those Little Devils!
Good old fashion home maintenance like sealing cracks and crevices, properly sealing doors and windows and reducing outdoor lighting can help prevent a massive invasion of overwintering pest like ladybugs and stink bugs. If these pests do make it inside using a handheld vacuum cleaner is often a quick approach to removing the population. Sometimes populations are so large they will require a professional with specialized equipment and tools. If stink bugs or un-lady like lady beetles have become a nuisance, call Angel Pest Control to get a halo of protection around your home or business! Remember “We’ll get those little devils!”
