Norovirus, also known as Norwalk virus, affects people of all ages and is typically most active between November and March. (Sodium vapor lights are often used to reduce light pollution in big cities, or near beaches with sea turtle nesting activity.) Consider chemicals.Cases of norovirus, the bug behind 60 per cent of cases of 'stomach flu' in humans, are on the rise in Canada again after a few quiet years during the COVID-19 pandemic. Assess exterior lighting.īecause stink bugs are attracted to light, consider switching out exterior light bulbs for yellow bulbs or sodium-vapor lights, which are known to be less "attractive" to insects. Seal up any areas in question with caulk (a silicone-based formula is recommended for glass), or perform necessary repairs to fix larger openings and possible entry points. Check window frames (especially in areas that receive frequent sunlight), door frames, exterior wood siding, and even around electrical outlets and light fixtures. Start by examining all possible entry points and addressing any obvious cracks or openings. ![]() How do I keep stink bugs out of my house? Check entry points. ![]() Stink bugs exist year-round, but you are more likely to see a bump in stink bug sightings during the spring and summer months, when temperatures rise and the bugs that sought a warm winter haven in your home or garden begin to venture back out into the open. They do not sting or bite, and while they have a tendency to sneak up and pull a surprise landing on you (or in your clothes, or in your hair), stink bugs are generally harmless to humans. Stink bugs stick to plants and other outdoor food sources. If you come across a stink bug, try gently transferring the bug outside or using an insect-trapping vacuum (or similar bug zapper) to remove it without smushing it or causing distress. In other words, it's not a pleasant odor. ![]() (Yuck!) To human noses, the smell resembles herbs or spices, like cilantro, mixed with a chemical smell. When threatened or squashed, stink bugs emit a strongly scented substance from a gland in their abdomen. Stink bugs are part of an insect family that uses smell as a defense mechanism. Stink bugs can weasel their ways into spaces, but often cannot figure out how to escape, thus causing a small community to suddenly inhabit your home. When winter temperatures start to rise and days get sunnier, the bugs come out of hiding (eek!) and become more active. They typically go through a "hibernation" period during cold winter months, often hiding in walls or unoccupied spaces like attics. To add to the list of unavoidable stink bug attractions, these insects love warmth and sunlight. ![]() They are known to snack on any and all parts of plants, including the blooms, buds, fruits or vegetables, and even nuts, so chances are high that your garden contains some flora of interest. Unfortunately for gardening gurus, stink bugs also enjoy a wide variety of native plants, from ornamental shrubs to wild vines and weeds. Stink bugs like fruit (especially ripe fruit) so if you're a fan of the classic countertop fruit bowl, your ripe bunch of bananas could be a culprit. While it may seem as if these pests appear out of nowhere, their presence can usually be attributed to a handful of factors. Before you go into full bug-zapping mode, read up on the root of the problem and find tips for prevention and management. The type of stink bug you have most likely encountered is invasive brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB, for short), which was introduced to North America in the mid-1990s from its native Asia and is harmless to humans but can certainly become a nuisance if left to roam freely around sunny, otherwise-pleasant bathrooms and bedrooms. Along with fruit flies or gnats, you'll likely welcome stink bugs into your garden or home at some point, too. Stink bugs, along with their other more unpleasant insect friends (like roaches), are one of the more unpleasant harbingers of spring.
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