Stink Bug Control: Cocoa, FL's Trusted Solution

How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs in Cocoa, FL

Your first instinct when spotting a stink bug indoors might be to squash it. However, doing so will release the bug’s infamous foul odor, which can attract even more stink bugs to your home.

Instead, the best way to physically remove a stink bug from your house is to vacuum it up and empty the vacuum bag outside, away from your home. Another method is to create a simple light trap. Set up a light over a dish of soapy water to lure the stink bugs in, causing them to fall into the trap and drown.

Preventing further stink bug entry is essential in controlling an infestation. Begin by sealing off any potential entry points around your house. Common entry points in Cocoa homes include damaged window screens, gaps around doors, and cracks in exterior walls. Roof vents and chimney gaps are also common access points. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these gaps and prevent additional stink bugs from entering.

For effective and long-term relief, professional pest inspections and treatments are recommended. All U Need Pest Control offers comprehensive stink bug removal services for Cocoa residents. Our experts will inspect your property within 48 hours of your inquiry and eliminate all stink bugs, saving you the hassle of dealing with traps and unpleasant odors.

Types of Stink Bugs in Cocoa, FL

Though there are over 200 species of stink bugs in North America, several specific species are more common in Cocoa, FL.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

The brown marmorated stink bug is one of the most common species to invade homes in Cocoa. These bugs are typically about 17mm long, with brown, red, or black coloration. They can be identified by their white bands on the legs and antennae, as well as alternating dark and white markings on their abdomen.

Originally from Asia, the brown marmorated stink bug has become a significant agricultural pest in the U.S. They are notorious for feeding on crops like citrus, tomatoes, and peppers—key crops in Florida—which results in considerable damage. The bugs’ feeding causes scarring and deformation in fruit, rendering it unsellable.

Rough Stink Bug

Rough stink bugs are harder to spot due to their camouflaged, bark-like appearance. These stink bugs blend well with Cocoa’s natural landscape and are less likely to be seen in urban areas. Unlike other stink bugs, rough stink bugs are not agricultural pests. In fact, they are beneficial to the ecosystem as they feed on other harmful insects like caterpillars and beetles.

Green Stink Bug

Green stink bugs are prevalent throughout Florida, including Cocoa. These bright green bugs are common pests that feed on fruit trees and other plants. Their feeding can cause a condition known as “catfacing” in fruits, where the fruit becomes deformed due to damaged cells.

Southern Green Stink Bug

Similar to the green stink bug, the southern green stink bug is a prominent agricultural pest in Cocoa. They start out black but turn bright green as they mature. These pests primarily feed on tomatoes, peppers, and other garden plants, causing significant damage. Their toxic saliva kills young fruit, while older fruit can develop hard, inedible patches.

Spined Soldier Stink Bug

The spined soldier stink bug, which is tan or brown in color with pointed shoulders, is another beneficial species in Cocoa. Like the rough stink bug, they prey on other pest insects and do not harm plants. Farmers and gardeners in Cocoa consider them helpful for controlling more destructive pest populations.

How to Prevent Stink Bug Infestations in Cocoa, FL

Stink bugs are most likely to invade your Cocoa home during the cooler fall and winter months. It’s essential to take preventative steps early on to avoid an infestation.

Here’s a list of steps to prevent stink bugs:

• Check for and seal potential entry points around windows, doors, and vents.
• Replace any damaged screens and ensure windows and doors close tightly.
• Inspect walls for cracks, particularly around pipes and electrical outlets, and use caulk to seal these gaps.
• Maintain your indoor environment by keeping it dry and well-ventilated, especially in attics and basements.

Maintaining your indoor environment can also help. Stink bugs are attracted to moist environments, so using dehumidifiers and ensuring good ventilation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces can be beneficial. Regularly inspect and prune indoor plants, as they can harbor pests.

Outside, remove any potential hiding spots such as fallen leaves, overgrown bushes, or old pots. Trimming shrubs and trees so they don’t touch your home can also deter stink bugs from making their way inside.