Stink Bugs in Georgia
Health RiskLow
Damage RiskNo Risk
NuisanceMedium
How to Identify Stink Bugs
Stink bugs can be identified by their shield-shaped bodies and mottled brown or gray coloring, often found gathering on windows, walls, and sunny exterior surfaces near homes.
- Actual Size 12 to 17 mm
- Characteristics Shield-shaped insects with brown to gray bodies and a slightly mottled appearance.
- Legs 6
- Antennae Yes
What Do Stink Bugs Do?
These pests are often seen during fall and spring, coming out of vegetation and sheltered areas to travel across sunlit surfaces and into homes.
- Named for the strong odor they release when threatened or crushed.
- They are primarily plant feeders and can feed on fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
- Often enter homes in the fall while searching for warm places to overwinter.
- Stink bugs can squeeze through small cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and siding to enter buildings.
Where Do You Find Stink Bugs?
These insects are typically found on exterior structures and nearby vegetation, where they gather in groups during seasonal temperature changes. Common places you’ll find stink bugs include:
- Sunny exterior walls of homes
- Window screens and window frames
- Door frames and entryways
- Gardens and vegetable plants
- Orchards and fruit trees
- Siding and rooflines of buildings
- Fences and outdoor structures
- Attics, wall voids, and other indoor hiding spaces during colder months
What Should I Do If I Have Stink Bugs in Georgia?
These pests do not pose a health risk, but they can become a nuisance when they move indoors in large numbers while seeking overwintering sites. If you’re noticing stink bugs in your home, the following steps are suggested:
- Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, siding, and utility openings to block entry points.
- Install or repair window and door screens to reduce indoor access.
- Reduce outdoor lighting at night, which can attract stink bugs to your home.
- Keep doors and windows closed during peak seasonal activity, especially in the fall.
- Inspect and seal attic spaces, vents, and other potential overwintering areas.
- Contact professional pest control if stink bug activity is heavy, recurring, or difficult to manage.
Top 5 FAQs About Stink Bugs in Georgia
Got questions about stink bugs? Check out our FAQ section below. If you need more help, reach out by phone or email.
Why do stink bugs smell?
They release a foul odor as a defense mechanism to deter predators.
Why are stink bugs in my house?
They often enter homes in the fall seeking warm, sheltered places to overwinter.
How do stink bugs get inside?
They enter through cracks, gaps, vents, and openings around windows and doors.
How can I prevent stink bugs in my home?
Seal entry points, repair screens, and reduce outdoor lighting near doors and windows.
When should I call a professional for stink bugs?
Contact professional pest control if infestations are large, recurring, or difficult to manage on your own.
