Stink Bug Control: Fort Myers Shores, FL's Trusted Solution

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

If you find a bug inside your home, your first instinct might be to squash it with a newspaper, shoe, or tissue. However, squishing a stink bug will release a strong odor, which can linger for a long time. Not only will you have to deal with the foul smell, but this odor can also attract more stink bugs, exacerbating the problem.

The best way to physically remove a stink bug is to vacuum it up and dispose of the vacuum contents outside, far from your home. You can also create a simple light trap. Set up a light source over a shallow pan of soapy water. The stink bugs will be attracted to the light and drown in the soapy water. It’s a non-toxic method to reduce their numbers.

If you suspect a larger infestation, you’ll need to take steps to prevent more stink bugs from entering your home. Sealing entry points is crucial. Common areas where stink bugs gain access include damaged window screens, cracks in walls, gaps around sliding doors, roof vents, and chimneys. Use caulking and weatherstripping to seal off these areas.

The most reliable and effective method to rid your home of stink bugs is to hire a professional pest control service. At All U Need Pest Control, we offer quick and thorough inspections within 48 hours of your inquiry. We eliminate all stink bugs from your home, sparing you the hassle of dealing with traps and odors on your own.

Types of Stink Bugs in Fort Myers Shores, FL

Globally, there are about 2,000 species of stink bugs, with around 225 species found in North America. While not all species are harmful, it’s important to understand which ones can pose a threat to your property in Fort Myers Shores.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

If you’re finding stink bugs inside your home, there’s a good chance they are the brown marmorated stink bug. These bugs are larger than most other species, growing up to 17mm in length. They vary in color, typically appearing in shades of dark red, brown, or black, with lighter beige undersides. Their antennae and legs feature distinctive white bands.

Originally from Asia, the brown marmorated stink bug is a major agricultural pest in the U.S. They damage various high-value crops, including apples, grapes, peaches, peppers, and tomatoes, leading to significant economic losses for farmers. In Fort Myers Shores, this species can be particularly problematic for local gardeners and those growing their own fruits and vegetables.

Rough Stink Bug

The rough stink bug is a master of camouflage, blending in with tree bark due to its rugged gray and black appearance. These stink bugs can grow up to an inch long and have spines on their shoulders, unlike the more rounded shape of other species.

Unlike many other stink bugs, the rough stink bug is not considered a pest. Instead, it acts as a beneficial predator, feeding on harmful insects like caterpillars and beetles. If you see rough stink bugs in your yard, they’re likely helping control pest populations rather than causing harm.

Green Stink Bug

The green stink bug is one of the most common species found in North America. As the name suggests, these bugs are solid light green and can grow up to three-fourths of an inch in length. Green stink bugs cause damage to fruits, particularly peaches and tomatoes, by leaving behind a condition known as “catfacing,” where the fruit becomes deformed due to the damage caused by the stink bug’s feeding.

Southern Green Stink Bug

The southern green stink bug is another species that is common in Fort Myers Shores. These bugs are bright green and grow to over half an inch in length. While they are born with a dark, almost black color, they turn green as they mature. Southern green stink bugs feed on a wide range of crops, including peaches, tomatoes, and cotton. They cause damage to fruits by injecting toxic saliva into them, leading to deformed and unsellable produce.

Spined Soldier Stink Bug

The spined soldier stink bug is another beneficial species that preys on harmful insects such as beetles and caterpillars. These stink bugs are pale brown or gray in color and have distinctive spined shoulders, which give them their name. Unlike other stink bug species, spined soldier stink bugs do not damage plants and are considered helpful for keeping gardens healthy.

How to Prevent Stink Bug Infestations in Fort Myers Shores, FL

Preventing stink bugs from entering your home is the best way to avoid dealing with them. As they tend to seek shelter indoors during the colder months, preparing your home in advance can help you avoid a stink bug infestation.

Here are several steps you can take to prevent stink bugs from entering your home:

• Inspect your home for potential entry points and seal any gaps.
• Repair or replace damaged window screens and ensure doors and windows close tightly.
• Check for cracks in walls, especially around pipes and electrical outlets.
• Use caulking or weatherstripping to seal any gaps or crevices.

Additionally, it’s important to control the indoor environment. Stink bugs are attracted to moist areas, so using dehumidifiers in spaces like basements, attics, and crawl spaces can help reduce their appeal. Regularly prune and maintain indoor plants, as they can attract stink bugs if left unchecked.

On the outside of your home, remove any clutter that stink bugs could use for shelter. Clear away overgrown plants, old flower pots, and fallen leaves. Keeping bushes, shrubs, and tree branches trimmed so they don’t make contact with your house is another effective way to prevent stink bugs from invading your home.