Why Your Home Might Become A Stink Bug Sanctuary Soon

I've paid attention to the news in the past when a 'New Invasive Species' has finally made it's way into Connecticut, how could you not? We've battled invasive plants, insects, and oh those Spotted Lanternflies, but another invasive species is about to crawl into your home.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug has called Connecticut home since 2008, and this little Asian insect has been identified as an invasive pest that threatens our native fruit, nuts, veggies, and crops according to ct.gov. Get ready Torrington, I found a couple of them on my screen door last night.

According to uconn.edu, Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs pose a threat to over 170 identified plants in Connecticut, and a swarm of them can do major damage basically in one night. Although we're rapidly approaching the time of October when we can get our first frost, the stink bugs are at their most active. Adult stink bugs do not feed or reproduce in the cold weather, and they're searching for the tiniest opening into your residence right now.

What can you do to protect yourself and your crop? If you're a homeowner, smash them, but be prepared to find out why they're called stink bugs. These bugs release a stank-smelling liquid from holes in its body in order to protect itself against predators, and this noxious fluid although not harmful to humans can irritate your eyes and especially your nose. I moved the two I found on my screen door into the parking lot last night before I performed my civic duty, I made sure to drag the bottom of my shoe along the pavement to get rid of any remnants before entering my place.