Stink Bugs Still Abound

The stink bug, notorious for its "smelly" reputation, earned its name from its tendency to release an odor when disturbed or when crushed.

Although the old, winter months are upon us, the stinky little creature still abounds, living in windowsill crevices and under eaves, and showing itself when the winter suns shines bright and temperatures reach the high 40s and above.

When handled or disturbed, stink bugs are able to secrete a bad-smelling, bad-tasting fluid from pores on the sides of their bodies. This secretion protects stink bugs from predators. They are often fed upon by birds, spiders, assassin bugs and other arthropod predators (including other stink bugs).

If you're concerned that you have stink bugs in your home or place of business, give Dave a call at 1-800-400-6009.

Dave's Pest Control
1-800-400-6009
A Central Massachusetts Extermination and Pest Control Company
Worcester County Pest and Rodent Exterminators
www.davespestcontrol.net

Reference: www.pestworld.org

Invasive Insects From Abroad - Part Three

The brown marmorated stink bugs first arrived from Asia in 1996 and have become an increasing nuisance for homeowners in the Eastern U.S. Named for the "stink" they emit as a defense against predators, stink bugs are especially unpleasant to find indoors.

Stink bugs have the potential to spread throughout the country, which could be harmful to the agricultural industry. Although these smelly pests do not pose serious property or health threats to homeowners, their tendency to invade homes in high numbers can be a nuisance. Adult stink bugs enter homes and other structures in the late fall to seek shelter from the winter weather. They reemerge from overwintering sites in early spring and try to exit, but sometimes enter living spaces instead. Like other overwintering insects, they often congregate on the sides of buildings.

If you're concerned that you have brown marmorated stink bugs in your home or place of business, give Dave a call at 1-800-400-6009.

Dave's Pest Control
1-800-400-6009
A Central Massachusetts Extermination and Pest Control Company
Worcester County Pest and Rodent Exterminators
www.davespestcontrol.net  

Reference: www.pestworld.org

Tips To Guard Against Stink Bugs - Part 3

Like other pests, stink bugs often enter structures in larger numbers, making them a difficult pest to control once inside. Therefore, here are a few more simple ways to ward off these invaders before an infestation develops.

• Check your belongings: Inspect items such as boxes containing holiday decorations and grocery bags before bringing them indoors. Stink bugs can travel on these items and make themselves cozy once inside the home. 
• Properly landscape: Keep branches and shrubbery well trimmed. In addition, make sure to store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house and five inches off the ground. 
• Think before squishing: When many people find a stink bug, their first instinct is to squish them. However, when disturbed or crushed, stink bugs have a tendency to release a bad-smelling, bad-tasting odor from pores on the sides of their bodies. This is how the pest earned its name. 
• Use a vacuum: If stink bugs have already entered a home, use a vacuum cleaner for their removal. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately to prevent odor from permeating the area, as dead stink bugs leave a residue inside the bag that can stink up your home.  

Remember that homes can be pre-treated for stink bugs before they become a problem. But, if you suspect an infestation has already developed, contact give Dave a call at 1-800-400-6009.
Dave's Pest Control
1-800-400-6009
A Central Massachusetts Extermination and Pest Control Company
Worcester County Pest and Rodent Exterminators
www.davespestcontrol.net  

Reference: www.pestworld.org  Missy Henriksen, Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Tips To Guard Against Stink Bugs - Part 1

As the temperatures begin to drop, now is a good time to pest proofing the home, both inside and out, to prevent stink bugs and other pests from becoming unwelcome house guests this fall.

Over the next few posts I'll offer some simple steps that you can take right now to keep stink bugs at bay:

1. Seal off entry points: Spend some time inspecting the outside of your home for easy access points. Pay close attention to areas including around siding and utility pipes, behind chimneys, and underneath the wood fascia or other openings. Seal any cracks and holes that are found using a good quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk.

2. Replace and repair: Stink bugs can enter the home through the smallest openings, so it’s important to repair or replace damaged screens on windows or doors. Don’t forget to check for torn weather-stripping and loose mortar. You can also install door sweeps if necessary.

 3. Turn off the lights: Stink bugs are attracted to lights, so it’s recommended to keep outdoor lighting to a minimum. During the evenings, turn off porch lights and pull down window blinds to prevent light from spilling outside.

 If you're concerned about stink bugs in your home or place of business, give Dave a call at 1-800-400-6009.

Dave's Pest Control
1-800-400-6009
A Central Massachusetts Extermination and Pest Control Company
Worcester County Pest and Rodent Exterminators
www.davespestcontrol.net  


Reference: www.pestworld.org  Missy Henriksen, Wednesday, October 3, 2012