If you've ever had to deal with an invasion of stink bugs, then you understand just how maddening these stink-filled, dive bombing creatures can be. If you haven't had to deal with them, just do a quick search on the internet for "stink bug horror stories," and you'll get a taste (or perhaps a bad smell) of the trouble these bugs can inflict on a household that is not prepared to keep them out.
One lady tells of stink bugs infesting her tomato crop. They left the leaves alone, but once the fruit began to ripen, they attacked. That's when she decided to, "Get medieval on those critters," torching thousands of stink bugs--and her tomato plants--using a propane torch. Let us mention, this is not only dangerous, but it will do nothing, ultimately, to stop stink bugs from coming back.
Another frustrated homeowner says, "I'm probably not the only one who's thought of burning their house down just to kill the stink bugs." Another laments that they have been infested "All winter long;" And goes on to say, "I thought they were supposed to be hibernating!"
Finally, one lady says, "I have found them everywhere… They are horrible. I have killed them and smelled them for hours. I wish I knew of a way to keep them out."
Is there a way to keep stink bugs out?
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep stink bugs out of your home.
- Examine your window screens and repair or replace any that are damaged. Stink bugs only need a tiny opening to squeeze through, and screens seem to be their favorite entry point.
- Seal up any gaps or cracks around exterior windows or doors.
- Inspect weather stripping, especially on sliding doors. Make sure everything lines up and is in good repair so there are no gaps.
- Install door sweeps or replace any that are worn.
- Use window-grade screening to cover vents and the opening to your chimney.
- Keep your garage door closed.
- If you buy fruit, keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to eat it. Stink bugs favorite food is fruit. If they are in your home and have access to fruit, they will be active all winter long.
But what if my home is already infested with stink bugs?
There are a number of strategies and tools available that can partially keep invading stink bugs out of your home, but stink bugs are almost impossible to totally get rid of on your own. To win the war on stink bugs, you are going to need the help of a professional pest control company. Here at Parkway Pest Services, we offer same-day pest control services for Long Island; the Five Boroughs; Westchester County, NY; and Fairfield County, CT. For stink bugs, you can be free with Parkway's 100% guarantee! Call or click today.