Based on what I saw trying to enter my home [last] weekend, brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) has begun the search for overwintering sites. Either I'm searching harder or this is earlier than what I've seen before. So, if you have had problems with BMSB using your home as their overwintering hotel, now is the time to be sure you home is invasion-proof. Shorter day length is a trigger for many insects to begin searching for protected places to pass the winter, and for some stink bugs, ladybugs, and boxelder bugs, that can mean your home! The best method to deal with fall insect invaders is prevention: pest-proofing your home to keep them out in the first place.
In Kentucky, there are a number of insects that may choose to move into homes for the winter, including brown marmorated stink bug, multicolored Asian lady beetle, boxelder bug, western conifer seed bug, and cluster flies. Of these, brown marmorated stink bug is usually the first to search for protected places to spend the winter. Multicolor Asian lady beetle begins seeking refuges a month or more after the stink bug. Homes that have had a history of unwanted fall invaders should expect problems in the future.
Preventing Entry
BMSB will begin to gather on structures and vegetation around some structures late in the afternoon on sunny days in late August and September before attempting to gain entry. There are a number of steps to properly pest proof your home, but the primary method is to exclude pests by sealing places through which they enter. Here are steps to reduce problems with fall insect invasions.
- Seal cracks around doors, windows, and dryer vents with caulk. Cracks as small as 1/8" will permit some insects to pass.
- Seal openings for pipes and wires in the foundation and siding with caulk, expandable foam for larger openings, or other suitable material.
- Check the seal under doors. While lying on the floor, look for light filtering underneath. Replace door sweeps and thresholds as needed.
- Replace torn or damaged window screens.
- Consider adding a chimney cap to exclude brown marmorated stink bug and other wildlife.
- Cover attic and roof vents with hardware cloth. The cloth needs to be 1/6 inch or smaller to exclude BMSB.
- Apply a barrier insecticide to the exterior of the home. Treat areas underneath and around doors, windows, utility openings, and around the base of the foundation. Read and follow all label directions.
After Entry
Indoors during winter, BMSB try to congregate in various places inside structures. This can be in chimneys, closets, window air conditioning units, attics, behind books on a shelf, etc. Insecticides are not recommended inside the home to control pests after they have entered. The best way to remove them once inside is with a vacuum. A knee-high stocking can be used in the suction tube of the vacuum to reduce the number of bags needed. Just drop the stink bugs into soapy water. Various types of light-baited/funnel traps and soapy water traps have been used successfully to remove them from dark areas in a home.
Categories: Kentucky, Rural Lifestyle