Identification: In Pennsylvania, we most often come across the brown marmorated stink bug. They arrived to our region from Asia in the 1990’s. These bugs are shield-shaped, a mottled grayish-brown, and about 3/4 of an inch long. They have 6 legs and antennae. Of course, they release a characteristic odor when disturbed or squashed which earned their name.
Behavior & Diet: Adult stink bugs feed on fruit. They are active in warmer months and can be found congregating on a sunny wall outside of a home, then seek out shelter inside in late fall to spend the winter. They typically spend winter inside walls or in crawl spaces, then emerge in spring. Once inside, it is extremely difficult to get rid of a stink bug infestation without professional help.
