6-14-11: Stink Bugs a Growing Pest for Our State
State pest association provides tips for dealing with this new nuisance
Raleigh, N.C. — A new pest, the brown marmorated stink bug, is on the rise in North Carolina and is proving to be a very stinky problem. The North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA) today urged North Carolinians to contact a pest management professional if they believe that these pests are in or near their property.
The bug is three-quarters of an inch long and is recognized by its brown marbled, armor-like exterior. The bug is known as a stink bug because it produces a foul smell when it is crushed.
“These pests can damage crops and can be a smelly problem if they aren’t treated properly. The North Carolina Pest Management Association wants the public to know how to spot these insects and how to properly treat them to avoid creating a stinky situation,” said Lee Smith, entomologist and board member of NCPMA.
The brown marmorated stink bug originated in Asia and was first noticed in the United States in 1998 and in North Carolina in 2009. In 2010, the number of brown marmorated stink bugs present in the United States grew dramatically. Over the past few years, the pest has been found in 33 states across the country.
The stink bug has proven to be a nuisance to farmers across the country because it eats virtually any food crop including apples, lima beans, cherries and tomatoes.
“These stink bugs aren’t harmful to people but they can be a big, smelly nuisance especially if they are crushed,” Smith said. “This is a new pest for our area, which means we are learning more about them every day. It is important to seek a qualified pest professional get the most advanced treatment method to rid a home or building of these pests.”
To temporarily ease infestations of stink bugs, homeowners should:
- Remove the bugs. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the live and dead bugs from a building. The vacuum bag should be thrown away immediately.
- Prevent bug entry. Make sure all holes and crevices to the outside of the house are sealed and that all window screens are properly fitted to windows to prevent bugs from entering the home or building.
- Consult a professional. A professional pest management company can provide tips and treatments for dealing with the stink bugs. A list of qualified pest management professionals can be found at the NCPMA Web site at www.ncpestmanagement.org.
About the NCPMA
Founded in 1952, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA), is the trade association representing the professional pest management industry in North Carolina. NCPMA promotes the continued cooperation and success of all pest management businesses in North Carolina. Formerly, the North Carolina Pest Control Association, NCPMA is the only statewide association dedicated to representing and educating North Carolina’s pest management professionals. To learn more about NCPMA, please visit www.ncpestmanagement.org.
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