Garden Pests | Aptive Pest Control https://aptivepestcontrol.com Share Your Home with Family, Not Pests. Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:28:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 Why Stink Bugs Smell – The Science Explained https://aptivepestcontrol.com/pests/garden-pests/stink-bugs/why-stink-bugs-smell-the-science-explained/ Tue, 14 Oct 2025 20:20:07 +0000 https://stage.aptivepestcontrol.com/?post_type=pests_library&p=11723 You encounter a single stink bug in your home and within minutes detect a sharp, acrid odor that seems disproportionate to the size of the insect responsible, creating an unpleasant environment that persists long after the bug is removed. This powerful defensive response represents millions of years of evolutionary refinement that has produced one of […]

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You encounter a single stink bug in your home and within minutes detect a sharp, acrid odor that seems disproportionate to the size of the insect responsible, creating an unpleasant environment that persists long after the bug is removed. This powerful defensive response represents millions of years of evolutionary refinement that has produced one of nature’s most effective chemical deterrent systems, enabling these invasive insects to survive and spread rapidly in environments lacking their natural predators.

What Are Stink Bugs?

Stink bugs (Halyomorpha halys) are invasive insects that have become a common household pest in many parts of the world. Recognizable by their distinctive shield-shaped bodies, these bugs can be destructive to crops and gardens.

Key facts about stink bugs:

  • Appearance: Typically brown or green, with a broad, shield-like body about 1–2 cm long.
  • Origin: Native to Asia, stink bugs were accidentally introduced to the U.S. and other countries, where they spread rapidly.
  • Diet: Primarily feed on fruits, vegetables, and plants, piercing them with their mouthparts and causing damage.
  • Behavior: In autumn, stink bugs often invade homes in large numbers as they seek warmth for overwintering.
  • Defense mechanism: Release a pungent odor from thoracic glands when threatened, handled, or crushed.
  • Impact: While not dangerous to humans or pets, they are major agricultural pests and a major nuisance indoors.

The Chemistry Behind the Stench

Stink bug odor production relies on specialized anatomical structures and biochemical processes that enable rapid synthesis and deployment of defensive compounds when threats are detected.

Adult stink bugs possess paired metathoracic scent glands located on the ventral thorax between the middle and hind legs, featuring complex ductal systems that enable rapid chemical release through external pores called ostioles.

These specialized glands contain secretory cells that produce and store volatile organic compounds in concentrated form, enabling immediate deployment when neurological triggers activate muscular contractions that expel chemical contents.

Juvenile stink bugs (nymphs) utilize different defensive systems including dorsal abdominal scent glands that produce distinct chemical compounds, with gland location and chemistry changing through molting stages until adult development.

Scent glands maintain high concentrations of defensive compounds in specialized storage chambers, enabling rapid release of sufficient quantities to create effective deterrent effects over substantial areas.

Why the Odor Is So Effective

Stink bug chemical defense represents sophisticated evolutionary adaptations that provide multiple survival advantages through predator deterrence and intraspecific communication.

  • Chemical compounds irritate mucous membranes, produce bitter tastes, and create noxious odors that discourage consumption by birds, mammals, and arthropod predators while potentially causing temporary incapacitation or illness.
  • The distinctive odor serves as a warning signal that advertises stink bug unpalatability to potential predators, enabling learned avoidance behaviors that reduce predation pressure on entire populations.
  • Chemical releases warn nearby conspecifics of danger, triggering defensive behaviors including dispersal, hiding, and increased vigilance that improves survival rates for local populations.
  • High concentrations of defensive compounds can inhibit further aggregation in contaminated areas, preventing overcrowding and resource competition while distributing populations more effectively.

Stink Bug Infestation: More Than Just a Nuisance

Stink bug chemical releases in indoor environments create persistent contamination problems due to enclosed spaces, limited ventilation, and surface absorption characteristics.

Indoor chemical releases rapidly saturate enclosed spaces through air circulation systems while demonstrating extended persistence due to limited air exchange and atmospheric dilution.

Defensive compounds adhere to fabrics, carpeting, upholstery, and porous surfaces through absorption and chemical bonding that resists standard cleaning methods.

HVAC systems can distribute stink bug odors throughout buildings while concentrating compounds in ductwork and filtration systems that require specialized cleaning procedures.

Multiple chemical releases in confined spaces create cumulative contamination that intensifies over time while demonstrating extended persistence following source removal.

Why Stink Bug Pest Control Is So Important

When stink bug odor problems continue despite cleaning efforts, Aptive’s pest control experts provide the comprehensive solutions necessary for lasting results. Our pest control service can perform detailed stink bug assessments to identify population sources, extent of pest contamination, and environmental conditions driving continued pest establishment and odor production.

If you’re experiencing persistent stink bug odors despite elimination efforts, dealing with widespread contamination in indoor spaces, or need professional assessment of stink bug-related odor problems, contact Aptive today for a free quote.

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What Attracts Stink Bugs to Your Home? https://aptivepestcontrol.com/pests/garden-pests/stink-bugs/what-attracts-stink-bugs-to-your-home/ Tue, 02 Sep 2025 17:05:03 +0000 https://stage.aptivepestcontrol.com/?post_type=pests_library&p=11467 Stink bugs are seasonal invaders that can quickly transform from minor nuisances into major household problems, particularly during fall months when they seek warm shelter for winter survival. These shield-shaped insects aren’t randomly choosing your home—they’re drawn by specific environmental conditions and structural features that make your property an attractive overwintering site. Understanding what attracts […]

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Stink bugs are seasonal invaders that can quickly transform from minor nuisances into major household problems, particularly during fall months when they seek warm shelter for winter survival. These shield-shaped insects aren’t randomly choosing your home—they’re drawn by specific environmental conditions and structural features that make your property an attractive overwintering site.

Understanding what attracts stink bugs and why they invade homes helps you implement targeted prevention strategies and reduce the likelihood of dealing with these odorous pests throughout the colder months.

Why do stink bugs like to enter homes?

Stink bugs enter homes primarily to escape cold weather and find suitable overwintering sites, a behavior called overwintering aggregation. As temperatures drop in fall, these insects instinctively seek protected locations where they can remain dormant until spring. Homes provide ideal conditions—consistent temperatures, protection from predators, and shelter from harsh weather elements that would otherwise be fatal during winter months.

Stink bugs also exhibit aggregation behavior, releasing pheromones that attract other stink bugs to the same location. This means finding a few stink bugs often indicates many more are nearby or will follow. Once they establish a successful overwintering site, they tend to return to the same location in subsequent years, making prevention crucial for long-term control.

Are stink bugs dangerous?

Stink bugs are not dangerous to humans or pets in terms of bites, stings, or disease transmission. They cannot bite people as they have piercing-sucking mouthparts designed for feeding on plant juices rather than blood or human tissue. Unlike some insects, stink bugs don’t carry diseases that affect humans or animals, making them primarily nuisance pests rather than health threats.

However, they can cause indirect problems for sensitive individuals. Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when handling stink bugs directly, particularly if they crush the insects and come into contact with their defensive secretions. These reactions are typically mild and localized but can cause temporary discomfort.

The primary concerns with stink bugs relate to property damage and quality of life issues. Large infestations can create persistent odors throughout homes, and their presence during winter months can be psychologically distressing for homeowners. In agricultural settings, stink bugs cause significant crop damage, but this doesn’t translate to structural damage in residential settings. Their main impact on homeowners involves the unpleasant smell, potential staining of surfaces, and the general nuisance of finding these insects throughout the home during their active periods.

Do stink bugs really stink?

Yes, stink bugs definitely live up to their name by producing a distinctive, unpleasant odor when threatened, crushed, or disturbed. This smell serves as their primary defense mechanism against predators and is released from specialized glands located on their thorax. The odor is often described as musty, acrid, or similar to rotting vegetables, with some people comparing it to cilantro or strong herbs.

The intensity of the smell varies depending on the species and the level of threat the stink bug perceives. When crushed, the odor becomes particularly strong and can linger on surfaces, clothing, and skin for extended periods. This persistent smell is one of the main reasons homeowners find stink bug infestations so problematic, as the odor can permeate rooms and require significant cleaning efforts to eliminate.

Interestingly, not all stink bug species produce equally offensive odors, and some people are more sensitive to the smell than others. The brown marmorated stink bug, which is the most common home invader, produces one of the more potent odors among stink bug species. The smell can also become more noticeable when multiple stink bugs are present, as their collective defensive secretions create stronger, more persistent odors throughout infested areas.

How to prevent a stink bug infestation

Preventing stink bug invasions requires comprehensive exclusion and habitat modification before peak invasion season:

  • Seal entry points: Caulk cracks around windows, doors, and foundations, and install or repair damaged screens on windows and vents.
  • Reduce outdoor attractants: Remove overripe fruits, vegetables, and dense vegetation near your home’s foundation that might attract stink bugs.
  • Exterior maintenance: Inspect and seal gaps around utility penetrations, siding, and rooflines where stink bugs commonly enter structures.
  • Lighting modifications: Use yellow or sodium vapor lights instead of white lights near entrances, as bright lights attract stink bugs during evening hours.
  • Timing considerations: Implement prevention measures in late summer before stink bugs begin seeking overwintering sites in early fall.

What to do if you have a stink bug infestation

If stink bugs have already invaded your home, focus on removal and exclusion rather than elimination methods that release odors:

  • Gentle removal: Use a vacuum cleaner to capture stink bugs without crushing them, then dispose of the bag immediately to prevent odor buildup.
  • Avoid crushing: Never squash stink bugs as this releases their defensive odor and can stain surfaces permanently.
  • Professional treatment: Contact pest control services for severe infestations, as they have specialized equipment and treatments for safe, effective removal.
  • Seal remaining entry points: Continue sealing cracks and gaps even after removal to prevent additional stink bugs from entering.
  • Monitor and maintain: Check for new entry points regularly and maintain exclusion efforts throughout the overwintering season to prevent reinfestation.

When to call a professional

When dealing with stink bug problems that are affecting your home’s comfort or creating persistent odor issues, professional pest control services offer the most effective and comprehensive solutions. At Aptive, our pest control experts can assess the extent of your stink bug invasion and identify the specific entry points and attractants on your property, which is crucial for determining the most appropriate exclusion methods and preventing future infestations.

If you’ve noticed increased stink bug activity around your property or are dealing with indoor infestations that continue despite your prevention efforts, don’t wait—contact Aptive today for a free quote. We’ll help you eliminate the stink bug problem while keeping your home comfortable and odor-free throughout the overwintering season.

Stink bug FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions from homeowners about stink bugs and why they might find their way into your home.

Q: Are stink bugs attracted to heat?

Yes, stink bugs are strongly attracted to heat sources, particularly during fall when they’re searching for warm overwintering sites. They’re drawn to sun-heated surfaces like south-facing walls, warm building materials, and areas around heating vents or appliances. This heat attraction explains why they often cluster on the sunny sides of homes during cooler days and why they’re more active during warm autumn afternoons. Light-colored homes that reflect and retain heat are especially attractive to these temperature-seeking insects.

Q: What type of damage do stink bugs cause?

Stink bugs cause minimal damage to homes and structures, primarily creating nuisance problems rather than property damage. They may leave behind staining when crushed, and their defensive odors can permeate rooms and fabrics. In gardens, they can damage fruits and vegetables by feeding on plant juices, leaving dimpled or discolored areas. The main “damage” is quality of life impact from their presence, persistent odors, and the stress of dealing with large numbers of these insects throughout winter months when they’re seeking shelter indoors.

Q: Are stink bugs poisonous?

No, stink bugs are not poisonous to humans or pets. They don’t inject venom through bites or stings, and they’re not toxic if accidentally ingested, though this isn’t recommended. Their defensive secretions can cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals if handled directly, but this isn’t due to poison—it’s an allergic reaction to their natural defensive chemicals. The unpleasant smell they produce is purely defensive and doesn’t indicate toxicity. Stink bugs are generally harmless from a health perspective, posing only nuisance concerns for homeowners.

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How Garden Pests Enter Your Home Through Cracks in Foundation Walls https://aptivepestcontrol.com/pests/garden-pests/how-garden-pests-enter-your-home-through-cracks-in-foundation-walls/ Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:07:01 +0000 https://stage.aptivepestcontrol.com/?post_type=pests_library&p=10706 Foundation cracks often go unnoticed until you’re dealing with a serious pest problem inside your home. Even small cracks and gaps in your foundation provide an easy pathway for pests to move from your garden directly into your living space. Without properly sealing these entry points, insects and rodents can quickly establish themselves inside your […]

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Foundation cracks often go unnoticed until you’re dealing with a serious pest problem inside your home. Even small cracks and gaps in your foundation provide an easy pathway for pests to move from your garden directly into your living space.

Without properly sealing these entry points, insects and rodents can quickly establish themselves inside your walls and other hidden areas. Understanding how these pests enter and taking proactive steps to prevent them can save you considerable time, money, and frustration.

Why Pests Use Foundation Cracks to Enter Homes

Even seemingly minor cracks in your foundation walls can serve as welcome entry points for a variety of garden pests. Ants, spiders, and rodents actively use these gaps to transition from your garden into the comfort of your home. These cracks provide shelter from predators and harsh weather conditions, making them particularly attractive to pests searching for warmth, food, and water.

Moisture around your foundation creates additional problems. When water collects near your foundation walls, it can soften materials and make it even easier for pests to work their way through existing cracks. Once these pests make it inside, they typically multiply quickly and can become extremely difficult to eliminate without professional help.

Common Pests That Use Foundation Cracks

Here are the most common types of pests you are likely to find work their way through foundation cracks.

Ants

A detailed close-up image of a red and black ant walking on a green, fern-like leaf. The background shows a textured red surface with scattered twigs and debris.

Ants are constantly traveling in search of food and shelter, and they can slip through incredibly tiny openings in your foundation. Once they’ve found a way in, they can establish extensive colonies inside your walls, kitchens, and basements. You might notice them first along windowsills or near food sources in your kitchen.

Spiders

A detailed close-up image of a dark brown orb-weaver spider resting on a vibrant green leaf. The spider has a round, textured abdomen covered in fine hairs, with long, spindly legs extending outward. The background consists of blurred green foliage.

Spiders typically follow other insects into your home. If other pests are finding ways inside through foundation cracks, spiders will likely follow to hunt them. Once they’ve entered, they’ll spin webs in corners and undisturbed areas throughout your home. While most house spiders are harmless, species like the brown recluse or black widow can pose health risks if they establish themselves inside.

Rodents

A brown field mouse with large ears standing on green moss and surrounded by leafy plants.

Mice and rats need surprisingly small openings to gain access to your home. A mouse can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime, while rats can enter through quarter-sized openings. Once inside, these pests can cause serious problems by chewing on insulation, electrical wiring, and stored food. Rodents also reproduce extremely quickly, which means a minor intrusion can develop into a full-blown infestation in very little time.

Cockroaches

A detailed close-up image of a brown cockroach perched on a green plant bud. The cockroach has a shiny, textured exoskeleton, long antennae extending forward, and spiny legs gripping the plant. The background is dark and blurred with hints of green foliage.

Cockroaches thrive in damp conditions, making foundation cracks near moist soil particularly appealing. These resilient pests can easily move from outdoor soil directly into indoor spaces, especially if moisture is present. Their flat bodies allow them to squeeze through incredibly small openings in your foundation.

Termites

A detailed close-up image of a large group of termites actively crawling through soil and decomposing plant material. The termites have translucent bodies with dark brown heads, and some have prominent mandibles. The background consists of loose dirt, dried grass, and termite tunnels.

Termites actively use foundation gaps to access wooden structures within your home. If they find a way inside through these cracks, they can cause significant structural damage before you even realize they’re present. This makes them one of the most destructive pests that can enter through foundation issues.

Garden Pest Prevention Strategies

A modern white house with a green roof and large windows, surrounded by a well-manicured lawn and garden, set against a blue sky and trees.

Here are some strategies to help you from bringing pests into your home through cracks in your foundation. If you need any help, it is often worth it to hire a pest control service to come and take a look at where you can seal cracks if needed.

Inspect Your Foundation Regularly

Make it a habit to thoroughly inspect your foundation at least seasonally. Look carefully for cracks, holes, or gaps around your home’s exterior walls. Even openings that seem too small to be concerning can provide entry for certain pests. You’ll want to pay special attention to areas where pipes or cables enter your home, as these are common pest entry points that are often overlooked.

Seal Cracks and Gaps

Once you’ve identified potential entry points, use appropriate materials like caulk, concrete filler, or weather stripping to seal any openings. This creates an effective barrier that prevents pests from using foundation cracks to enter your home. For larger gaps that rodents might exploit, expanding foam can provide an effective seal when applied properly.

Keep Soil and Mulch Away from Foundation Walls

Keep soil and mulch at least 6 inches away from your foundation walls to reduce pest access points. Moist soil and thick mulch naturally attract many garden pests, so maintaining this gap is crucial for prevention. Consider using gravel or stone as a barrier instead of wood mulch near your foundation, as wood products retain moisture and can attract wood-destroying insects.

Fix Drainage Issues

Standing water around your home not only weakens foundation materials but also creates an environment that attracts moisture-loving pests. Ensure your gutters and downspouts direct water well away from your foundation. Regularly check for and clear any clogged drains that might cause water to pool near your walls, especially after heavy rainfall.

Store Firewood and Debris Away from Your Home

Store firewood, bricks, and other debris at least several feet away from your foundation to limit potential nesting sites for pests. These materials often provide ideal shelter for various insects and rodents. Make it a practice to regularly inspect stored firewood for signs of termites and other wood-destroying pests before bringing it into your home.

Use Pest Barriers and Screens

Install fine mesh screens over vents, crawl spaces, and air ducts to prevent pest entry while maintaining proper ventilation. Door sweeps can also help block rodents from squeezing through gaps under doors leading to basements or garages. These simple barriers can be highly effective at keeping pests outside where they belong.

Trim Vegetation Near Your Home

Overgrown plants and tree branches that touch your home act as natural bridges for pests to access your foundation walls and roofline. Make sure to trim back foliage to maintain at least a 12-inch gap between plants and your home’s exterior. This simple step eliminates easy access routes for many common garden pests.

Addressing a Persistent Pest Problem

An Aptive pest control specialist, wearing protective gloves and a cap, is spraying pesticide indoors near a window with a garden visible outside.

If pests continue to enter your home despite your best efforts at sealing cracks, there may be a larger infestation nearby or hidden entry points you haven’t discovered. Some pests, such as termites or rodents, may already have established nests inside walls or under foundations. Ignoring these persistent issues can lead to structural damage and increasingly costly repairs.

Our pest control experts can identify all problem areas around your foundation and provide targeted treatments. Our technicians have the training and knowledge to locate hidden infestations and apply effective treatments to eliminate existing pests while preventing future invasions.

If you suspect an ongoing pest issue related to foundation cracks, get a free quote today for a detailed inspection of your property. Taking action now can prevent more serious pest problems from developing in the future.

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Stink Bugs https://aptivepestcontrol.com/pests/garden-pests/stink-bugs/ Wed, 10 Jul 2024 22:47:33 +0000 https://stage.goaptive.com/pests/stink-bugs/ All About Stink Bugs: Identification, Types, Treatment, Life Cycle, Habitat, and Prevention Identification of Stink Bugs Stink bugs, known scientifically as members of the family Pentatomidae, are easily recognizable by their shield-shaped bodies. They range in size from about 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch in length and are typically brown or gray in color, although […]

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All About Stink Bugs: Identification, Types, Treatment, Life Cycle, Habitat, and Prevention

Identification of Stink Bugs

Stink bugs, known scientifically as members of the family Pentatomidae, are easily recognizable by their shield-shaped bodies. They range in size from about 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch in length and are typically brown or gray in color, although some species may have colorful markings. These pests are notorious for the unpleasant odor they release when threatened or crushed, a defense mechanism used to deter predators.

Types of Stink Bugs

There are several types of stink bugs, but the most common in residential areas is the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys). Native to Asia, this species has become widespread in North America and Europe, causing significant agricultural damage. Other common types include the Green Stink Bug (Chinavia hilaris) and the Southern Green Stink Bug (Nezara viridula).

Stink Bug Treatment Approaches

Managing stink bugs generally involves a combination of mechanical methods and careful planning. Sealing entry points in homes can prevent stink bugs from invading indoor spaces. Vacuuming can be an effective way to remove stink bugs from your home without triggering their odor. It’s important for homeowners to consult with pest management professionals to discuss the options available in their area for managing these pests.

Life Cycle of Stink Bugs

Stink bugs experience a “simple metamorphosis” which includes the stages of egg, nymph, and adult. The female stink bug lays eggs on the underside of leaves in the spring. Nymphs, which emerge from the eggs, go through multiple molts before reaching adulthood. This cycle can take from several weeks to months depending on the climate and environmental conditions.

Habitat of Stink Bugs

Stink bugs are adaptable to various environments but are commonly found in gardens, orchards, and farms where they feed on fruits and plants. During colder months, they often seek shelter inside homes and other buildings, leading to conflicts with homeowners. In natural settings, they may inhabit trees, bushes, and other vegetated areas.

Prevention of Stink Bug Infestations

Preventing stink bugs from entering homes and buildings is crucial. Homeowners should seal cracks around windows, doors, and foundations, and repair any tears in screens. Proper landscaping can also help, as reducing moisture and removing debris around the building can deter stink bugs from settling nearby. Awareness of peak stink bug seasons can help in scheduling preventive maintenance.

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Pill Bugs https://aptivepestcontrol.com/pests/garden-pests/pill-bugs/ Wed, 10 Jul 2024 22:47:33 +0000 https://stage.goaptive.com/pests/pill-bugs/ Understanding Pill Bugs Identification of Pill Bugs Pill bugs, often referred to as roly-polies due to their ability to roll into a ball when threatened, are small, segmented crustaceans, not insects. They are distinguishable by their rounded backs made up of armored plates, seven pairs of legs, and antennae. Typically, they are gray in color […]

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Understanding Pill Bugs

Identification of Pill Bugs

Pill bugs, often referred to as roly-polies due to their ability to roll into a ball when threatened, are small, segmented crustaceans, not insects. They are distinguishable by their rounded backs made up of armored plates, seven pairs of legs, and antennae. Typically, they are gray in color and can grow up to 3/4 inch long. Recognizing these critters is essential for homeowners to coexist with or manage their presence around the home.

Types of Pill Bugs

While pill bugs are commonly clustered under a general label, there are actually several species within the group. The most familiar species are the common pill bug and the striped pill bug, which have slight variations in their armor patterning and habitat preferences. Understanding the differences can aid in recognizing their habits and the environments they prefer.

Life Cycle of Pill Bugs

Pill bugs experience a lifecycle that includes eggs, several juvenile stages, and adulthood. Females carry eggs in a pouch where they hatch, releasing juvenile pill bugs that look like miniature adults. These juveniles molt multiple times, shedding their exoskeletons to grow. The entire life cycle can last up to two years, during which they can reproduce multiple times, increasing their population under favorable conditions.

Habitat Preferences of Pill Bugs

Pill bugs thrive in moist environments and are often found in damp areas around homes such as basements, flower beds, and under rocks or logs. They play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by breaking down decomposing material, which enriches the soil. However, they can wander into homes during extremely wet or dry seasons in search of more suitable habitats.

Prevention Tips for Homeowners

Managing moisture is key to keeping pill bugs at bay. Ensure proper ventilation in basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Redirecting water away from the home’s foundation with proper grading and gutters and removing piles of debris near the home can also decrease pill bug numbers. Repairing any leaks and using dehumidifiers in damp areas can further help in reducing the conditions that attract these creatures.

General Observations and Tips

While pill bugs are harmless and do not pose any health threat to humans, their presence might be undesirable for some homeowners. Understanding and controlling environmental factors is the most effective way to manage their populations. Being familiar with their lifecycle and habitat preferences provides a proactive approach towards limiting their presence around living spaces without the need for intervention.

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Why Do Pill Bugs Roll Up? https://aptivepestcontrol.com/pests/garden-pests/pill-bugs/why-pill-bugs-roll-up/ Mon, 13 Jan 2020 14:00:00 +0000 https://goaptive.com/pests/why-pill-bugs-roll-up Do you remember discovering rollie pollie bugs while playing in the yard as a kid? These dark bugs definitely live up to their nickname – they roll up into a ball for protection whenever they feel threatened. They are like tiny armadillos. As fun as they may be for kids, they can become a nuisance […]

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Do you remember discovering rollie pollie bugs while playing in the yard as a kid? These dark bugs definitely live up to their nickname – they roll up into a ball for protection whenever they feel threatened. They are like tiny armadillos. As fun as they may be for kids, they can become a nuisance if they decide to adopt your home. Keep reading to learn more about pill bugs and how to get rid of them if you’re finding one too many exploring your house.

What Are Pill Bugs

Pill bugs have six pairs of legs and two pairs of antennae. Most noticeably, they boast hard plates along their back and have the tendency to roll up into a ball when threatened. Their hard exoskeleton protects them from predators.

Interestingly, pill bugs are actually crustaceans that breathe through gills. They’re more similar to shrimp than insects! Unlike other crustaceans, a rollie pollie bug can spend the entirety of its life on land. However, they require damp or wet environments to survive. They can often be found under flower pots, rocks, mulch, damp grass, and around decaying vegetation. Depending on the region, pill bugs may also be called sowbugs or woodlice.

Are Pill Bugs Dangerous?

In general, pill bugs are usually one of the good guys. These beneficial garden insects typically produce compost and overturn soil. They rid soil of heavy metal ions by taking copper, zinc, lead, arsenic, and cadmium. They crystalize these metals in their midgut – most other species can’t survive in contaminated soil like pill bugs can.

However, they occasionally feed on young plants if they can’t find other food (this damage is typically minimal since they prefer to feed on organic decaying matter, even their own feces). Pill bugs can also be a nuisance if they move into your home (more on this below).

They don’t sting or bite humans, and they don’t spread diseases. They’re completely safe for the kids to play with!

Other Bugs That Roll Up

There are about fifteen types of pill bugs, but the most common is formally known as Armadillidium vulgare. Aside from pill bugs, there are a few other insect species that roll up into a ball to protect themselves. These include pill millipedes, Namib spiders, corn ear worms, and cutworms.

Getting Rid of Pill Bugs

If you’re repeatedly finding pill bugs in your home, there is likely a large population of them living and breeding near the building foundation. They typically use door seal cracks to enter homes. However, they typically dry out and die inside unless they find a damp basement to survive in. They need water to live. If they show up in your home often, this could signal an issue with dampness somewhere inside. This could also mean there are entry points that need to be sealed.

Pill bugs aren’t a pantry pest – if they manage to survive inside, they will be hiding in potentially moist areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or indoor plants.

Prevention

The key to controlling pill bugs is to take preventative measures. Make sure to seal any cracks in doors or the home’s foundation, control humidity in basements and crawl spaces. and keep landscape around your home dry. Once you get rid of their source of moisture, they will disappear.

Roly Poly Fun Facts

While pill bugs are harmless and don’t bite humans, there is much more to learn about these fascinating creatures. Commonly known as roly polys or rollie pollies, they intrigue with their ability to roll into a tight ball as a defensive mechanism. This behavior is often why children find them so captivating. Observing a pill bug can serve as a harmless introduction to the broader world of insects and nature for young explorers. Interestingly, roly polys do not carry diseases and don’t  bite humans, making them perfect for curious little hands. Their diet mainly consists of decaying plant material, and yes, they do consume their own poop under certain conditions! This might sound unappealing, but it’s a crucial part of the ecosystem as it helps in nutrient cycling.

Do Roly Poly Bugs Bite?

This is a common question and the answer is no, roly poly bugs do not bite. They also don’t have the capability to transmit diseases, adding to their reputation as a harmless garden visitor. Though they share a resemblance and are often mistaken for insects, pill bugs are actually crustaceans. This quirky fact places them closer to shrimp and crabs than to typical garden bugs. If you’re finding these critters in your home, it’s likely due to excess moisture that attracts them indoors. Pill bugs thrive in damp environments and their presence might indicate higher than normal levels of humidity. Managing moisture in your home is key to keeping them out. For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, pill bug watching can be an engaging activity, especially with kids, providing fun facts about their unique biology and role in the environment.

Exterminating Pill Bugs

Often times, you will need a professional to help exterminate pill bugs when there is an infestation that doesn’t go away. Almost always, there are entry points or sources of moisture in the building that you simply can’t find. Aptive Pest Control makes sure to find the source of the problem and eliminate it! Worried they might come back? We are so confident in our services that we will come back, at no additional cost, if the bug does.

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Do Stink Bugs Stink? https://aptivepestcontrol.com/pests/garden-pests/stink-bugs/do-stink-bugs-stink/ Wed, 01 Jan 2020 14:00:00 +0000 https://goaptive.com/pests/do-stink-bugs-stink Stink bugs are native to China, Japan, Taiwan, and Korea – they were first discovered in the United States around 20 years ago, where it was accidentally brought over. They are now found throughout nearly every state. They feed on hundreds of species of plants, including many agricultural crops (they’re definitely not a beneficial garden pest). […]

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Stink bugs are native to China, Japan, Taiwan, and Korea – they were first discovered in the United States around 20 years ago, where it was accidentally brought over. They are now found throughout nearly every state. They feed on hundreds of species of plants, including many agricultural crops (they’re definitely not a beneficial garden pest). Do stink bugs stink? Although they aren’t venomous or poisonous, they do have one form of protection – stink!

Unfortunately, stink bugs live up to their name. The unpleasant odor they produce when threatened or injured helps protect them from predators (similar to skunks). They also evoke this scent to find mates and attract other stink bugs to their location when they find a habitable environment. If you find stink bugs in your house, it’s important to be careful when taking measures to get rid of them.

What Does a Stink Bug Smell Like?

The exact scent of a stink bug is difficult to pinpoint. Their strong odor comparable to herbs and spices (the composition of their odor contains chemicals used in food additives as well as cilantro). The exact smell varies depending on the species and the human – some people can’t even smell stink bugs. Some people state their odor smells similar to skunks.

Stink Bugs in the Home

Stink bugs often come inside the house when it rains or when winter hits. This also depends on the species and the area. In some locations, stink bugs enter homes during summer and fall. They spend winter inside walls, attics, or crawl spaces. They typically come out during spring when they try to leave the building, which is when people often notice them in their home.

Do Stink Bugs Stink When You Kill Them?

Yes. Many homeowners think that stink bugs will stop smelling if they squish them, but this is the worst thing you can do. What happens when you squish a stink bug? They evoke the worst form of their scent when they are killed. Not only does this stink up your home for hours or days, but it can attract even more stink bugs if they smell it.

While many can immediately identify the odor of a stink bug, a surprising detail is that not everyone can smell stink bugs. Variations in human olfactory perception mean that while some people find their smell unbearable, others might not notice it at all. This variability often leads to confusion and differing opinions on the severity of an infestation based on smell alone.

How Do You Kill a Stink Bug Without Making it Stink?

It’s difficult to kill a stink bug without making them stink. Special traps and bug sprays can eliminate these pests while minimizing the scent, but it’s hard to completely promise a scent-free kill. The best way to get rid of them is to wait until they’re near a window or door and sneak up on them, then quickly sweep them outside. They’re usually trying to get outside anyways! Vacuuming them up is easy and usually won’t stink up your home, but it can make the vacuum smell for some time.

How Long Does Stink Bug Smell Last?

The foul scent of a stink bug scent can linger for hours or even days depending on the circumstances. There are many simple remedies to get rid of the scent, such as soaking a cotton ball with lemon or peppermint and leaving it out. You can also try odor-control products available in stores.

Are Stink Bugs Harmful to Humans?

Stink bugs can’t cause physical harm to humans (they don’t bite or sting). However, they can be quite a nuisance with their putrid smell as well as their tendency to destroy both indoor and outdoor plants.

Preventing Stink Bugs

If you seem to have issues with stink bugs in your home or garden, there are a few tips you can follow to keep them away. You should inspect the outside of your home carefully by looking for any cracks around windows or doors (if you find any, they can be sealed with caulk). You should also seal holes around pipes and cables that lead into your home. Make sure attics, crawl space vents, and windows are properly screened.

Tackling Stink Bug Infestations

Have you noticed a strange influx of stink bugs in your home or destroying your garden? If you’ve tried traps and sprays to get rid of them without luck, it might be time to call in a professional. Aptive Pest Control provides professional and effective pest solutions. We ensure the bugs go away and stay away – we’re so confident in our service, we will come back at no additional cost if the pest infestation comes back.

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