Preventing Stink Bugs In Your Chicago Home
Their name doesn’t leave much to the imagination — stink bugs are bugs that stink, but that’s not the end of their story. The most common stink bugs in the United States are brown marmorated stink bugs. This invasive species originated from Asia and first arrived in Pennsylvania in 1996. In just a few short decades, they are already found in much of the continental United States.
They get their name from the defensive odor they release when disturbed or crushed. This odor is from a chemical produced in a gland on the stink bug’s abdomen, and it’s thought that it helps protect them from predators. Some species can even spray up to several inches. The smell is often compared to strong herbs and spices like cilantro and coriander.
Stink bugs are common home invaders in late summer and early autumn as temperatures begin to fall.
How And Why Stink Bugs Invade Chicago Homes
Stink bugs seek entry into Chicago homes as the weather cools in search of a warm spot to overwinter. (They are less apparent during the winter simply because they have found a warm place to hide.)
As spring approaches, they become active again and reemerge, sometimes congregating in large groups on the sunny sides of buildings.
- Entry points for area homes are about the same for stink bugs as other pests. Common places they can find ways inside include:
- Gaps and cracks in exterior walls and foundations
- Extra space around areas where utilities enter a building
- Torn or ill-fitting screens
- Space around (or under) doors and windows
It doesn’t take much space to allow a stink bug access inside. And many times, they don’t need to make it all the way in, preferring to overwinter in the space between interior and exterior walls.
Stink Bug Threats
Accidentally introduced to the United States, stink bugs are an invasive species with no natural predators, and their populations have rapidly spread. This is a particular threat to agriculture as these pests destroy crops, but stink bugs can also damage decorative plants, fruit trees, and gardens.
In residential settings, they are more of a nuisance than a threat to people since they do not cause property damage or spread disease but can be devastating to farmlands.
While they don’t present health risks, it is worth taking care when handling stink bugs to avoid a residual unpleasant odor on your hands. The smell can linger for hours, so it is best to sweep or vacuum up these pests if they have made it into your home.
Stink bugs also mate and create up to three generations per year, with each family laying between 20 and 30 eggs at a time, so a small population can quickly grow out of control.
Hear From Our Happy Customers
At Aerex Pest Control, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our customers have to say about working with us.
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"Today’s service was great."Mark arrived early after calling to let me know we could start earlier if that worked with my schedule, it did. He was friendly and thorough.- Meredith C.
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"Reliable, available, effective."Mike is very friendly, cooperative. He knows our house well as to where there are concerns for critter control. We are very happy with Aerex.- Judith N.
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"Mike is the best."Mike showed up on time and was friendly with our crazy dogs and familiar with the house, even though he hasn’t been here in a while. Can’t ask for more for a semi-annual service and serviceman.- Cissy G.
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"Highly recommend."We've used Aerex for 20+ years at 2 locations. They are prompt, courteous & effective. Our regular service person, Wally, listens to current problems & applies the correct solutions to the problem. If needed within 30 days, a second visit is schedu- Harry S.
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"We are highly recommending their top-notch services!"Great company with professional people - such a pleasure working with! We have been using Aerex Pest Control at our properties for 10+ years and we couldn't be happier with the choice we made. The team from the office is always friendly, ready to help. The- Mi B.
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"Make it easy for me every time!"Jordan our technician was great. He’s very helpful and willing to assist us with dealing with our problem. He explains our issues and helps in determine what needs to be done.- Gary B.
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"10/10!"I have been using Aerex for over 20 years. Every tech that has come to our house has been incredibly knowledgeable, kind and respectful. They get the job done efficiently and always go the extra mile. They are all dog lovers too so that works when my dog g- Sheila B.
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"Thank you, Tony!"I especially like Tony who has been doing my house for over 10 years. He is very very trustworthy and clean and pleasant. Please let him know what l say here.- Linda T.
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