Stink Bug Control: Fort Myers, FL’s Trusted Solution

How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs in Fort Myers, FL

If you spot a stink bug in your Fort Myers home, your first reaction may be to squash it. However, squashing stink bugs releases their notorious foul odor, which can linger and even attract more stink bugs to your home.

The best method to physically remove stink bugs is to vacuum them up using a vacuum cleaner, and then empty the vacuum bag outside, far away from your property. Another effective technique is to create a simple light trap. Set up a light over a bowl of water mixed with dish soap; the light will attract the bugs, and they will drown in the soapy water.

For long-term solutions, it’s essential to take preventive measures to keep more stink bugs from entering your home. In Fort Myers, common entry points include damaged window screens, gaps around doors and windows, roof vents, and cracks in walls. Sealing these potential entryways with caulk or weatherstripping can help ensure that stink bugs stay outside where they belong.

While these DIY solutions can help, the best and most efficient way to remove stink bugs from your home is to hire a professional pest control service. At All U Need Pest Control, we guarantee your satisfaction and offer prompt service. We will inspect your property within 48 hours of your call and use our effective methods to rid your home of stink bugs, sparing you the hassle of traps and the unpleasantness of dealing with these smelly pests on your own.

Types of Stink Bugs in Fort Myers, FL

There are over 2,000 species of stink bugs globally, and North America is home to about 225 of them. In Fort Myers, several species are commonly encountered, some of which are agricultural pests, while others may be beneficial.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

The brown marmorated stink bug is the most common species in Fort Myers homes and gardens. These pests are slightly larger than other species, growing up to 17mm in length. They are brown, dark red, or black, with distinct white bands on their legs and antennae. Originally from Asia, the brown marmorated stink bug has become a major agricultural pest in the U.S., causing significant damage to a variety of crops.

In Fort Myers, these bugs feed on high-value crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and citrus fruits. Their feeding causes deformities in fruits and vegetables, rendering them unsellable. Farmers in the area need to be particularly vigilant to avoid serious economic losses caused by these pests.

Southern Green Stink Bug

The southern green stink bug is another species commonly found in Fort Myers. As their name suggests, adult southern green stink bugs are bright green, but when they first hatch, they are black in color. These pests grow to about half an inch long and have dark antennae with lighter bands.

Southern green stink bugs feed on a variety of crops, including cotton, citrus, and soybeans. They are particularly harmful to tomatoes and other fruits, injecting toxic saliva that causes deformations as the fruit grows. If the fruit is nearly ripe when attacked, it may develop hardened masses that make it unsellable.

Rough Stink Bug

Unlike the brown marmorated and southern green stink bugs, the rough stink bug is not considered a pest. These bugs are beneficial to the environment, as they feed on insects like caterpillars and beetles that can harm crops. Rough stink bugs have a rugged appearance and blend in with tree bark, making them harder to spot. They are a natural form of pest control in Fort Myers, helping to keep harmful insect populations in check.

Green Stink Bug

The green stink bug is another species you may encounter in Fort Myers. These stink bugs are solid green with a thin yellow or orange line around their shields. They can grow to about three-fourths of an inch long. Green stink bugs feed on crops such as citrus fruits and vegetables, causing a type of damage known as “catfacing,” which results in recessed, deformed areas on fruits.

Spined Soldier Stink Bug

The spined soldier stink bug is another beneficial species, similar to the rough stink bug. These bugs are smaller, growing up to 10mm in length, and have pointed shoulders, giving them their distinctive name. Spined soldier stink bugs prey on harmful insects, including caterpillars and beetles, which makes them a helpful presence in Fort Myers gardens and farms.

How To Prevent Stink Bug Infestations in Fort Myers, FL

Preventing a stink bug infestation in Fort Myers is key to avoiding the stress of dealing with these pests. Here’s how you can keep stink bugs out:

• Seal entry points: Check for gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other potential entryways.
• Use caulk or weatherstripping to close off these access points.
• Repair damaged screens: Torn or damaged window screens should be replaced to prevent bugs from entering.
• Inspect walls: Look for cracks, especially around pipes and outlets, and seal them properly.

In addition to sealing your home, maintaining the indoor environment is essential. Stink bugs thrive in moist areas, so using dehumidifiers in basements and attics, and ensuring proper ventilation, can help prevent an infestation. Outside, keep your property free of debris, such as fallen leaves, overgrown bushes, and old flower pots, where stink bugs might hide.