Don’t Let These Critters Make Themselves At Home
Fall is the season of wonderful aromas—pumpkin spice, sweet cinnamon, apple cider—we could go on and on.
But there’s one smell that’s not quite as lovely: The smell of a stink bug after it’s been squashed. That is one scent you definitely don’t want to put in a candle!
Stink bugs, sometimes referred to as “brown marmorated stink bugs,” are sneaky little things. Just as conniving is the ladybug’s sister, the Asian lady beetle. (Fun fact: despite her name, the ladybug is actually a beetle, not a bug!)
Many people think they have a ladybug infestation in their home, when the culprits are actually Asian lady beetles. You can take a closer look at the beetle to tell the difference. Ladybugs are bright red, while Asian lady beetles are orange and yellow. Another key difference is the area where the head meets the wing. If you see what looks like a black “M” in that spot, then you’re dealing with Asian lady beetles. These infestations are very common in New Jersey, while ladybug infestations are very rare.
Stink bugs and Asian lady beetles are like the bears of the bug world. They like to hibernate during the winter. However, unlike a bear that is resourceful and hibernates in its own den, stink bugs and Asian lady beetles will hibernate in your home when given the chance.
Prepare in the Fall, Thank Yourself in the Spring
Just like a bear emerges in the spring, these pests will do the same. Although these infestations occur in the spring, they are the result of what happens in the fall. The stink bugs/beetles seek shelter in your home and remain dormant all winter. But once the weather begins to warm up, this is when your uninvited guests will appear. This is why it’s important to treat your home in the fall when these critters are approaching your home to seek shelter from the cold.
What Causes These Infestations in the First Place?
There’s nothing in particular that causes an infestation of stink bugs or Asian lady beetles. However, September and October is typically when they’ll become a problem. The reason being, they’re trying to overwinter (aka, survive the colder months). More likely than not, you will not actually see the culprits until they re-emerge in the spring—typically, early March.
How Does Preventive Treatment Work?
In order to catch a criminal, you sometimes have to think like a criminal. At Bustabug, we do the same when it comes to understanding the nature and habits of pests. This is why we’re able to treat them so effectively.
If it’s spring and you’re dealing with a full-blown infestation, we will assess your home to identify the various entry points. Like many pests, stink bugs and Asian lady beetles are very small, which means they can fit through tiny spaces. The most common entry points for these pests include:
- Windows
- Vents
- The soffit (the material that connects the far edge of your roof to the exterior wall of the house)
- Exterior light fixtures
- Attic vents
- The area behind shutters and windows
We will treat each entry point to effectively and safely eliminate the pests. Once our work is complete, we will follow-up to ensure you’re no longer seeing active stink bugs or beetles.
Once the immediate problem is resolved, we’ll work with you to determine an ongoing preventive treatment plan. We offer quarterly and bi-yearly treatment options to help you stay ahead of the curve and prevent any future infestations from occurring.
What Else Can I Do to Prevent These Pests?
In addition to scheduling ongoing preventive treatment, here are some steps you can take to further protect your home from a future infestation:
- Seal up any voids around your home (near vents, soffits, windows, light fixtures, doorways, siding, etc.) If you need assistance with sealing these areas or you’re unsure whether these areas are properly sealed, we will be happy to help.
- Be on the lookout for egg masses around your home. These egg masses can sometimes be found on shrubbery and the general landscaping near your home. If found, you can destroy the eggs by tossing them in warm, soapy water.
- Moving forward, keep your eyes peeled for stink bugs and/or Asian lady beetles in your home. If you see one, it most likely means you have more in your home that aren’t visible just yet.
Infestations Stink. We’ll Help You End Them!
If you’ve dealt with these critters in the past, now is the best time to schedule treatment and prevent them from causing a real nuisance come spring. We’ll make sure these culprits stay far, far away from your home!
To schedule a free consultation for your home or business, contact us online or give Bustabug a buzz at (201) 347-5943 today.