Stink Bugs
Did you know? Stink bugs are now found in 38 states ranging from coast to coast.
Stink Bug Facts for Kids
Originally found in East Asia, stink bugs were not even reported in the United States until the late 1990’s! They get their name from an unpleasant odor released when you crush them or when they are protecting their homes.
- Size: 3/4"
- Shape: Triangular
- Color: Brown, gray or dark green
- Legs: 6
- Wings: Yes
- Antenna: Yes
- Common Name: Stink bug
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Family: Pentatomidae
- Species: Halymorpha halys
Diet:
Stink bugs eat leaves, flowers, fruit and crops like soybeans. They also eat other insects, such as caterpillars.
Habitat:
Stink bugs live in orchards, gardens and farms.
Impact:
Stink bugs do not hurt humans, but they can cause a lot of damage to crops and plants.
Prevention:
- Seal cracks around your house.
- Replace damaged screen on doors and windows.
- If you see a stink bug indoors vacuum them up and throw away the bag immediately.
- If you see a stink bug in your garden, lightly spray the area with approved insecticides. Keep weeds around the garden in control and clean up the garden at the end of the growing season.
- Hand pick stink bugs in early morning when they are slow moving.
Looking for more stink bug facts for kids? Find more information and learn about stink bug control at the official NPMA website.
