How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs
Summary:
Stink bugs are nuisances that will invade homes looking for shelter. There are pesticide products that can help to repel stink bugs and other products that seal up their points of entry. Read more about these products here.
Have small, shield-shaped bugs flown into your house and emitted a gross odor? These insects are called stink bugs because they possess a gland that releases an odor as a means of self-defense. There's nothing like a good dose of “stink” to protect yourself from being eaten by a bird or lizard.
Exterior insecticide treatments to the sides of homes will provide some relief if used properly. The most popular professional products for stink bug control are
Suspend SC,
Demon WP or
Temprid SC. (Click
Here to learn more about Rick's favorite Stink Bug Control products.)These insecticides do provide some residual control of stink bugs but have their limitations.
It's good to know that insecticides break down in sunlight, so the residual effect of the treatment will be shortened and may not have an effect on the bugs much more than several days or a week. Retreating exterior surfaces on a regular basis especially during peak seasons will make these prevention measures more effective.
Remember to always read the product label. If you are uncomfortable applying pesticides or lack the proper equipment you might consider having a licensed pest control operator apply the materials.
Exclusion is the key to avoiding stink bug invasions. Sealing your house by closing doors and windows will help keep them out of your home. If there are cracks in your siding, windows, doors, utility pipes, behind chimneys, or other openings, good quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk will help stop their entry. There are also exclusion products like Xcluder, which is an easy to use material for stuffing cracks and crevices. Replace ripped window and door screens and install screens on attic vents. Inspect entries to crawl spaces to make sure they are properly sealed.
Although stink bugs are primarily pests of crop fields, they can be found in meadows, fields, yards, or gardens and especially those with low shrubs. They are most active from spring through fall, but they usually become house invaders at the beginning of fall when temperatures start to drop. They sometimes hibernate on the outside of some south-facing buildings for warmth, but usually over winter in protected areas under dead weeds, stones, in the bark of trees or in your house.
The stink bug's eggs are yellow, yellow-red, white, or pale green in color and can be found on the underside of leaves in clumps of 20 to 30 eggs. Eggs are only found outdoors on plants because stink bugs cannot reproduce indoors. Thank goodness for small favors. Crop plants are the primary source of food for stink bugs. They typically feed on fruit plants and nuts. They particularly enjoy honeydew, tomatoes, beans, corn, squash, peppers, cabbage, and any type of fruit, using their beaks to pierce and suck plant juice. This activity can cause major damage to gardens. If you discover stink bugs on your plants you can scoop them up using a pill bottle or other small container. This is time consuming, but the containers help you avoid the smell they emit.
Here's the part I know you will hate hearing. You just spent a ton of money installing outdoor lighting to make your home look warm and inviting. Or, you added lighting as a security measure. Well, stink bugs are attracted to light. So, now your house is a beacon that shouts “Come to me all ye stink bugs looking for a home.” Stink bugs are drawn to lights coming from your windows, too. I can't ask you to shutter your windows at night, but closing the shades will help.
For stink bugs that have amassed on walls and ceilings there are foggers, or "bombs" are they are popularly known, that will kill them on contact. Pesticide "bombs" work best on exposed insects, rather than insects hiding deep in cracks. Readily available aerosol-type pyrethrum foggers like PT 565 Plus XLO will knock them down, but the treatment will not prevent more stink bugs from emerging shortly afterwards. The pesticide bombs are advertised to show clouds of pesticides magically spreading throughout the room, getting into every nook and cranny, chasing bugs out of hiding. The reality is the fog rises into the air, then settles back down. You would do a lot better simply doing a thorough inspection and using a vacuum to collect the bugs.
If your home becomes infested with stink bugs, be wary before sucking them into the vacuum cleaner. Squashing them or vacuuming them will usually make the smell worse. Wear gloves if you need to handle stink bugs because their unique beaks are fully capable of biting humans. Although their bites are not harmful, you will feel something similar to a sharp pinprick if you are bitten. Not fun!
Stink bug eggs
Universities are testing traps baited with the known chemical lure (methy 2,4,6-decatrienoate) to monitoring the spread of the stink bug, but it remains to be seen if a strategy of trap and kill can be devised to protect homes from being inundated in the fall. One problem in experimenting with this type of approach is that the compound is not commercially available, so not enough of the compound is available to do large scale experiments. Researchers have their doubts that in areas where there are large numbers of bugs such as near soybean fields at the end of the growing season, that enough bugs can be caught to significantly decrease the number of bugs seeking shelter in buildings.
Okay! You are armed with just enough information to do battle. Go out and fight a good fight!
Click here for more articles on stink bugs.
Comments
Anton
06 May 2010, 16:54
06 May 2010, 16:54
My wife is pregnant and cannot stand any odors, we do have new windows and
pretty sealed doors, but they still find places to get is, fireplace being
one of them, so there is nothing else I can do?
Ask the Exterminator
06 May 2010, 17:17
06 May 2010, 17:17
These products are applied on the exterior walls of the house and around
windows and doors. Most have little, if any, odor.
Mark
07 May 2010, 05:11
07 May 2010, 05:11
I say bring back DDT! Here in WV we have been infested for the past 2 years
in our new home we built. Sealing every crack and joint with caulking helps
but these little b-tards will find their way inside, just like any other
kind of bug. Sounds like another reason to ban importing goods from China.
These things remind me of those giant bugs on that movie "Starship
Troopers". So what is the strongest and most effective product available to
the public Mr. Exterminator? Does the insect fogger that dairy farmers use
to kill flys in the barn work? I'm ready to use a flame thrower, but my
Insurance Company would not cover my losses.
Ask the Exterminator
07 May 2010, 07:39
07 May 2010, 07:39
Any of the products I have listed will work if used according to label.
Click on the box at the top of the page and it will take you to a page
where the products are sold.
Ronnie Highnote
08 May 2010, 14:32
08 May 2010, 14:32
Another Warrenton, VA resisdent infested. Not as bad as some of the totals
I've read on earlier posts thankfully. I hope I never get that bad. They
are a big enough pest as it is already. We are averaging about 5 a day.
Earlier this week when power washing my screened porch over a 100 were
found in the screening where it is attached to the porch. The siding of my
house too. Just can't get rid of these pests. Even had a "pro" exterminator
come out before too. $400 contract and might as well taken that money and
flushed it down the toilet. We've been dealing with these for two years
straight now. It's misery.
Carmike
11 May 2010, 07:53
11 May 2010, 07:53
I live north of Pittsburgh Pa in economy boro and we have been dealing with
these for about 3-4 years. I noticed that they die in my garage where my
husband usually sets off bombs about once a year but i don't want to do
that in my house! I recycle my water bottles by putting water and dish
detergent in and catching them in there. It kills them right away and keeps
the stink contained. We have a number of these bottles sitting around.
Alan
14 May 2010, 19:39
14 May 2010, 19:39
I have them too, tracked most of them coming down the fireplace by the
dozens! The screen on the top of one of the chimneys was poorly installed.
The other chimney had a larger mesh screen that allowed them to come right
in. I repaired and sealed the screens on top of the chimneys and then
bombed the the fireplaces with a good bug spray. Take extreme care to make
sure no pilot lights are lit for gas logs. Also make sure the flue is open
when you do this.
Marcus454
15 May 2010, 21:18
15 May 2010, 21:18
While reading last night, one flew by my light. I killed it with a flick of
the finger, then toilet paper. Afterwards, three more came. My head itched,
so i gave my usual test to determine whether this arthropod was a nasty
blood sucker. All but one had red blood oozing out when I squeezed them.
That's nasty. I will confirm whether their bites are also used to suck
sugar blood form humans.
louise
16 May 2010, 12:15
16 May 2010, 12:15
These bugs are getting worse and worse. I was hoping the extra cold and
snow we had this winter was going to kill them, but they are worse than
ever. The dept of agriculture doesn't regard them, like the gypsey moth, as
a danger since they don't bite or ruin crops, but I think they should
re-classify them, these bugs are ruining my life!! They have to find a way
to get rid of the eggs in the Spring and quarantine crates from Japan and
China to prevent them from re-entering, we can't let these bugs get the
best of all of us!!!
DaveinWarrenNJ
23 May 2010, 13:33
23 May 2010, 13:33
It has been 3 weeks since I sealed the fireplace chimney, and we have seen
only 2 stinkbugs in our home. After I tape sealed the fireplace screen
(refer to my post on May 3rd), I put wire mesh (with 1/4" x 1/4" openings)
around my chimney cap, then lit a fire in the fireplace, to burn the
suckers out! I suppose that the two scoundrels managed to find a place to
avoid the heat and then escaped after I removed the tape. But with the
mesh on my chimney cap, they can't get in that way anymore - I consider my
problem solved
DaveinWarrenNJ
25 May 2010, 18:15
25 May 2010, 18:15
I am going to try Bag-a-Bug for these creatures. This inexpensive product
is intended for Japanese Beetles, and it uses a sexual attractant that
draws them in, and they get trapped in the bag. Some of you seem to have
alot more of these stink bugs than I do, so I suggest that you try this
product, too - worth a try before the beetles come out full-force in July.
Alan
25 May 2010, 21:27
25 May 2010, 21:27
I thought I had them pretty much under control by sealing every place
possible including putting a finer screen on top of the chimney and closing
the flue. Then I saw one drop down from one of the can lights in the living
room. There are holes in the can light fixtures to vent out the heat build
up from the bulb. These holes are large enough for these guys to come
through from the celing. Now these holes are screened over, this may stop
them for now until they find the next little crack to get in.....
Anna
25 May 2010, 23:01
25 May 2010, 23:01
I live in PA and these buggers are everywhere! Over the last few years it
has become more of a problem than anything. I know that water and
dish-liquid do not work but has anyone tried an empty water bottle with
dish-liquid, water, and a tsp of garlic powder. It seems to be helping me
somewhat I went from 10 of the buggers in one room down to one or two.
Ask the Exterminator
26 May 2010, 09:36
26 May 2010, 09:36
To Dave in Warren, NJ
The Bag-a-Bug trap will not work for stink bugs. The sex lure is for a totally different insect.
The Bag-a-Bug trap will not work for stink bugs. The sex lure is for a totally different insect.
Jim
27 May 2010, 21:54
27 May 2010, 21:54
Aw, come on now. Look on the bright side; you'll never have to worry about
being alone, and you'll never have to worry about starvation.
Joe
28 May 2010, 09:59
28 May 2010, 09:59
As we can see from multiple comments, buying expensive potentially toxic
chemicals is not the answer. Save your hard earned dollars. Lets put our
efforts in sealing these guys out! Spraying around the outside of the house
is only a temporary and expensive solution. That does not stop these flying
bugs from going straight to the attic or chimney.
Mark
29 May 2010, 22:31
29 May 2010, 22:31
I am in Thurmont PA,
For those using window ac,,,beware. I had the pull out type unit. Last fall when I pulled out the AC there were hundreds in the window ac.
Also my heat pump was not working. I pulled the outside metal cover off and the stink bugs had lodged themselves between the contact points. Removed them and ac worked,
For those using window ac,,,beware. I had the pull out type unit. Last fall when I pulled out the AC there were hundreds in the window ac.
Also my heat pump was not working. I pulled the outside metal cover off and the stink bugs had lodged themselves between the contact points. Removed them and ac worked,
Joshua
30 May 2010, 22:45
30 May 2010, 22:45
They started out as just a few now we have hundreds. We find if you keep a
cup of bleach around and throw them in the cup when you find them that they
will die. I've tried drowning them, freezing them and we've even microwaved
them several times(accidentally) and none of that kills them. I'd say on
average i see anywhere from 10-25 a day. Another way to kill them is
keeping a plastic bottle with a lid and throwing them in it when u find
them. They suffocate. I can say i have had them crawl on me and fly at me
and all sorts of things but i have never had one bite me.
KarenD
02 Jun 2010, 12:01
02 Jun 2010, 12:01
I live in Philadelphia, PA. I recently started finding Stink Bugs in my CAR
(Volvo SUV)! At first I thought one had just flown in but I have now found
5 big bugs in the past three weeks. I cant figure out if they were
hibernating or now hatching? Any suggestions. I have two toddlers.
Thanks.
Ask the Exterminator
02 Jun 2010, 12:14
02 Jun 2010, 12:14
They lay their eggs on the undersides of leaves. It is doubtful they will
reproduce inside your car.
Sondra Moylan
03 Jun 2010, 16:46
03 Jun 2010, 16:46
I have heard that the natural enemy of the stink bug is dying off - the
bat, due to something called white nose disease. Is this true?
Ask the Exterminator
03 Jun 2010, 22:55
03 Jun 2010, 22:55
Bats are under stress due to the white nose disease.
charlie
05 Jun 2010, 15:44
05 Jun 2010, 15:44
Hey, how about some news to get them out of the veg. garden
Ask the Exterminator
05 Jun 2010, 17:21
05 Jun 2010, 17:21
There are various non-toxic products that veggie gardens can be treated
with to kill of infestations of stink bugs or other unwanted pests. I like
the Eco Exempt products at
http://shop.asktheexterminator.com/garden-pests/eco-exempt-ic-2.html.
Fred from PA
10 Jun 2010, 16:48
10 Jun 2010, 16:48
I live in South central pa and i have noticed a steady increase in these
bugs every year. Two years ago when i moved into an attic bedroom i saw
just two or three, now i have killed around 5-6 every night. However, i
have noticed that they seem to peak when it gets warm or cold (like in
spring or fall when temperatures vary more). I have been killing them via
the tissue crush method. This works but I have noticed an increased number
when i do this. I am going to try sealing things off up there now, this
article has been helpful, however I've noticed there is no set remedy to
the stink bug problem.. I'm going to experiment with some things I have
been thinking about and report back. Thanks to everyone posting here and
good luck with your problem :/
Alan
22 Jun 2010, 12:29
22 Jun 2010, 12:29
Since my posting on May 25, we have not seen a single stink bug in the
house! If you have "can" lights, please check for air vent holes large
enough for these guys to come in. I put fine mesh screen over these holes
and so far it has been great not to fight a single stink bug!!
RonK
17 Jul 2010, 01:55
17 Jul 2010, 01:55
Has anyone tried using Diatomaceous Earth? It is the fossilized remains of
microscopic shells that lived in the water and had hard outer silica
shells. Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth is organic and safe. To naturally
kill stink bugs with Diatomaceous Earth, sprinkle it around crops and
plants. Diatomaceous Earth will not cause detriment to earthworms or
beneficial soil microorganisms.
John
07 Aug 2010, 12:44
07 Aug 2010, 12:44
Why use chemicals? Build a simple trap using free directions from the
university of FL. http://ufinsect.ifas.ufl.edu/stink_bugs/stink_bugs.htm
Ask the Exterminator
07 Aug 2010, 15:34
07 Aug 2010, 15:34
The stink bug traps are for monitoring, but they won't catch all the stink
bugs trying to enter your home. However, before you try controlling stink
bugs with chemicals you should be investing in sealing up cracks and
crevices where they are getting inside.
From Pa
13 Aug 2010, 01:51
13 Aug 2010, 01:51
This problem needs to be fixed as soon as earthly possible. It's been years
now, and researchers have made no progress whatsoever in coming up with a
way to destroy these abominations. This is unacceptable. We've got nothing
less than a plague on our hands, yet the situation is not receiving the
attention it so depserately warrants. While these bugs may not be
considered a "threat" to health or agriculuture, I can think of nothing
else in my life that so viciously attacked my peace-of-mind. I've combated
these things in most every way possible. I kill them mercilessly (I simply
swat them with the fly swatter, I couldn't care less about the smell), I
sleep with my windows shut in the heat of August, when I enter my house, a
run through the doorframe as quickly as possible so as not to allow
entrance to any of these despicable things. There's only so much one can do
to prevent them from coming inside. Sealing all the openings to a home is
near impossible, considering that we are unaware of most of them. We need
to find a better answer to this. And whoever does so deserves a Nobel Peace
Prize.
Ask the Exterminator
13 Aug 2010, 09:38
13 Aug 2010, 09:38
Ask your State Representative for help. I'm serious! Those guys need to be
re-elected and they pay attention when enough people start to yell. Nothing
better than Congress demanding a fix.
BMSB fighter in WV
15 Aug 2010, 23:17
15 Aug 2010, 23:17
Okay, it's mid August and I am about to wage war on BMSB's. And I'm going
to share some tips with you all, too. FLY PAPER; start hanging it outside
AND inside, by all lights. It WORKS, people. They *can* still crawl on it
but it seems to prevent them frm taking off, so they are kept from getting
free entirely. Next; mothballs...in your dryer vent going outside, in your
windows sills between the window and screen, outside under each door, and
all around the perimeter of the house. Get a BIG high-wattage bug zapper
with grates large enough to accomodate them - heck, get TWO! Caulk, screen
and put foam gasketting where applicable. Put mothballs in the attic, also!
Loads of them. The warmth should keep the attic full of naphta fumes with a
'positive pressure' to where it pours out all the places they would
otherwise try crawling into. Bug zapper, fly paper, caulk and mothballs are
cheaper than the hundreds you could utterly WASTE paying an exterminator.
No offense, but *some* exterminators are as bad as chyropractors. ;p
TCB
17 Aug 2010, 19:55
17 Aug 2010, 19:55
BMSB fighter in WV, thank you for the information. Could you please
elaborate on whether you are controlling the population, killing,
repelling? Or all of the above.
All of your suggestions I will try, have you tried hot tap water with dawn dish soap? The hot water stuns em, the dish soap kills. no fuss no smell!
The exterminator is our consideration, we hired for a one time application, knowing that a program is best to control.
Perhaps the exterminator guy on this blog can comment, anyway the active chemical -permichtin has positive results.
The one caveat, it will take 2-4 days to work, the stinkers still will crawl on the house, but it will help. We are set to have the application this week, so I will comment more when I see results, sure there are variables.
All of your suggestions I will try, have you tried hot tap water with dawn dish soap? The hot water stuns em, the dish soap kills. no fuss no smell!
The exterminator is our consideration, we hired for a one time application, knowing that a program is best to control.
Perhaps the exterminator guy on this blog can comment, anyway the active chemical -permichtin has positive results.
The one caveat, it will take 2-4 days to work, the stinkers still will crawl on the house, but it will help. We are set to have the application this week, so I will comment more when I see results, sure there are variables.
BMSB fighter in WV
18 Aug 2010, 00:34
18 Aug 2010, 00:34
TCB - am I controlling, killing and/or repelling you ask. Well, my goal is
erradication, quite simply. Aside from sealing every single crack in ones
home, better insulation (both of which you *should* attempt to be doing),
and not using any porch, security or other outdoor lighting, I know of no
reppellant. By all means if ANYone knows of one please share!
Controlling? That is something for the government to do. Simply put, the notion that any property owner could control these bugs beyond just cutting down every bit of veggetation they like, painting your home a color they don't like (if there is such a color), or something else I am missing, there truly is no such thing as 'controlling' them on any scale, I assert.
Okay, so we addressed reppelling and control. That leaves KILLING them. I certainly don't have the corner on the market of an exhaustive list of effective BMSB killing/extermination methods. There are many, though, and I want to give you all HOPE.
But, time is of the essence. I am right now designing my own bug zapper specifically catered to attracting BMSB's. It uses WHITE light; incandescent, and 100+ watts, for warmth. BMSB's much prefer white porch lights than MOSQUITO zapper black-lights. They also like white/light colored surfaces. So MY bug zapper is bright. It also doesn't have all the fancy (safety) louvres on the outside which otherwise prevent BMSB's from quickly getting to the anode/cathode and dyinging quickly. I don't want to wine then and dine them and give them a show. Go directly to hell; do not pass go, do not pass silly louvres - go directly to hell. Also, below this zapper will be a large shallow tub of dawn dish soap water to catch those BMSB's who only had there legs blown off and fell straight down, alive. Speaking of which, my anod/cathodes are close (shor gap) so they don't get stuck and clog the gap. But enough on that. More to follow.
You should all be trying to kill them outside NOW while they are still swarming, so they do not have a chance to get under your siding and in your home. The battleground will change soon enough; for now, take the fight outside to them. Flypaper to catch, then dispose of them immediately! Use zappers to dispatch them also. Use any poisons you are comfortable with having on/around your home, but don't exclusively rely on them; their effectiveness is diminished by UV (Sun) light! So every day the sun hits your siding, the permethrin begins to approach useless, although from what I have read, its usefullness is limited anyway, by I digress. This is, afterall, an exterminator site.
Anyway, please have hope, but please act fast and act well. KILL them every chance you get. Good luck and good fighting, friends.
Controlling? That is something for the government to do. Simply put, the notion that any property owner could control these bugs beyond just cutting down every bit of veggetation they like, painting your home a color they don't like (if there is such a color), or something else I am missing, there truly is no such thing as 'controlling' them on any scale, I assert.
Okay, so we addressed reppelling and control. That leaves KILLING them. I certainly don't have the corner on the market of an exhaustive list of effective BMSB killing/extermination methods. There are many, though, and I want to give you all HOPE.
But, time is of the essence. I am right now designing my own bug zapper specifically catered to attracting BMSB's. It uses WHITE light; incandescent, and 100+ watts, for warmth. BMSB's much prefer white porch lights than MOSQUITO zapper black-lights. They also like white/light colored surfaces. So MY bug zapper is bright. It also doesn't have all the fancy (safety) louvres on the outside which otherwise prevent BMSB's from quickly getting to the anode/cathode and dyinging quickly. I don't want to wine then and dine them and give them a show. Go directly to hell; do not pass go, do not pass silly louvres - go directly to hell. Also, below this zapper will be a large shallow tub of dawn dish soap water to catch those BMSB's who only had there legs blown off and fell straight down, alive. Speaking of which, my anod/cathodes are close (shor gap) so they don't get stuck and clog the gap. But enough on that. More to follow.
You should all be trying to kill them outside NOW while they are still swarming, so they do not have a chance to get under your siding and in your home. The battleground will change soon enough; for now, take the fight outside to them. Flypaper to catch, then dispose of them immediately! Use zappers to dispatch them also. Use any poisons you are comfortable with having on/around your home, but don't exclusively rely on them; their effectiveness is diminished by UV (Sun) light! So every day the sun hits your siding, the permethrin begins to approach useless, although from what I have read, its usefullness is limited anyway, by I digress. This is, afterall, an exterminator site.
Anyway, please have hope, but please act fast and act well. KILL them every chance you get. Good luck and good fighting, friends.
BMSB fighter in WV
18 Aug 2010, 00:57
18 Aug 2010, 00:57
I want to follow up. I did in fact mention mothballs in my first post, but
in my second might seem to be saying there is no reppellent that works
afterall; fact is, I don't know if mothballs work or not. Just today I had
a BMSB crawling on a screen only inches from where a row of mothballs were
placed under the screen along the window sill; appeared to do nothing to
reppell this lil' bastidge. But, I'll still employ them outside around my
house, since I get a LOT of moths around my house. Someone where I work
mentioned a trap (not BMSB related) to catch fruit flies which I'd like to
try outside to see if it catches stinkers also - equal parts water and
apple cider vinegar, in a cup (or pitcher in this case), with a few drops
of Dawn dishsoap, with Saran type wrap over the top with holes poked in the
saran wrap. I guess it's a poor man's roach motel..they check in and don't
check out (fruit flies). Maybe it works for BMSB's...cheap experiment,
either way.
I am considering making my own fly (well, BMSB) paper in large sheets to hang by outdoor lights; flypaper while they are swarming seems to be getting so full with them it runs out of room before catching all that show up! Thre are 'recipes' for making your own flypaper; google it if you are a DIY'er kind of person. At any rate, rest assured, if you have BMSB's in your yard/garden/whatever and you are not taking ANY action....well, they are coming for you, soon.
I truly hope that these colleges doing studies on how to deal with BMSB's aren't overlooking the practical steps that can be taken, but I fear they are. They are probably focused on how to engineer a blight on them, render them sterile, or deciding which OTHER biological blight to inflict on us (er, them) to handle the situation. What about just inventing a better 'mouse' trap, so to speak? I guess to the R&D engineer or company that JUMPS on this HUGE monetary oppotunity to quicky corner this market with a (hopefully) effective product, go the spoils. Frankly, I just want all the ones in MY yard, around MY home, dead. I don't care about making it a business venture.
But then again, if my zapper works, I WILL mention it to my local news and WILL market the plans for how to make it (too much liability in it to make/sell them). I thoroughly expect to kill them in the hundreds (per night). Just flypaper alone was catching 40 between 2 small rolls the other night. Now is definitely the time to get while the getting's good....
I am considering making my own fly (well, BMSB) paper in large sheets to hang by outdoor lights; flypaper while they are swarming seems to be getting so full with them it runs out of room before catching all that show up! Thre are 'recipes' for making your own flypaper; google it if you are a DIY'er kind of person. At any rate, rest assured, if you have BMSB's in your yard/garden/whatever and you are not taking ANY action....well, they are coming for you, soon.
I truly hope that these colleges doing studies on how to deal with BMSB's aren't overlooking the practical steps that can be taken, but I fear they are. They are probably focused on how to engineer a blight on them, render them sterile, or deciding which OTHER biological blight to inflict on us (er, them) to handle the situation. What about just inventing a better 'mouse' trap, so to speak? I guess to the R&D engineer or company that JUMPS on this HUGE monetary oppotunity to quicky corner this market with a (hopefully) effective product, go the spoils. Frankly, I just want all the ones in MY yard, around MY home, dead. I don't care about making it a business venture.
But then again, if my zapper works, I WILL mention it to my local news and WILL market the plans for how to make it (too much liability in it to make/sell them). I thoroughly expect to kill them in the hundreds (per night). Just flypaper alone was catching 40 between 2 small rolls the other night. Now is definitely the time to get while the getting's good....
TCB
18 Aug 2010, 09:48
18 Aug 2010, 09:48
BMSD fighter in WV:
Thank you again for your informative post. While I agree with your plan of action, I too have asked the same questions you outline.
This is an Agricultural problem[s] and WHY aren't steps in place to eradicate if not control the port, e.g. the imports from known offender that bring in the pests?
The fly paper you mentioned, where may I purchase? We are in the panhandle of WV, while only moving here 18 months ago, last fall was an extreme burden dealing with the pests. So I took to the blogs to educate myself, many suggestions work for a time, then its almost like these stinkers think..lol
From reading, many sub species have emerged..and finding them in our home throughout the winter was especially nasty. Considering all the suggestions,
I like you will try anything to kill these invaders.
You are correct about the spray professionals use, and UV's, however, the back of my home has northern exposure, so it is shaded, and that is where most of the activity, at least as a novice [which I would prefer not to have] anything at this point would be welcomed. Not sure moving is a viable option since the pests are on the move, and travelling in cars, trucks as means to invade.
Thank you again for the information, please continue to read/share what success/failure have results, ditto that for myself and others.
Have you contacted your state rep? The problem is growing rapidly, and many are ignoring the pro active steps to facilitate a solution. Please let me know if you develop a diy pseudo bug zapper.
Thank you again for your informative post. While I agree with your plan of action, I too have asked the same questions you outline.
This is an Agricultural problem[s] and WHY aren't steps in place to eradicate if not control the port, e.g. the imports from known offender that bring in the pests?
The fly paper you mentioned, where may I purchase? We are in the panhandle of WV, while only moving here 18 months ago, last fall was an extreme burden dealing with the pests. So I took to the blogs to educate myself, many suggestions work for a time, then its almost like these stinkers think..lol
From reading, many sub species have emerged..and finding them in our home throughout the winter was especially nasty. Considering all the suggestions,
I like you will try anything to kill these invaders.
You are correct about the spray professionals use, and UV's, however, the back of my home has northern exposure, so it is shaded, and that is where most of the activity, at least as a novice [which I would prefer not to have] anything at this point would be welcomed. Not sure moving is a viable option since the pests are on the move, and travelling in cars, trucks as means to invade.
Thank you again for the information, please continue to read/share what success/failure have results, ditto that for myself and others.
Have you contacted your state rep? The problem is growing rapidly, and many are ignoring the pro active steps to facilitate a solution. Please let me know if you develop a diy pseudo bug zapper.
TCB
18 Aug 2010, 09:55
18 Aug 2010, 09:55
One other question, I have read fruit trees attract the stinkers? We have 3
in our yard, and yes they seem to have quite a few, should we get cringe,
remove them?
Tired of using, employing, lining the pockets of home defense products, and exterminator's.
Consider calling the media to light the fire....Anyone???? on board.
One voice is weak, but the hoard deafening...
Beleagured in WV!!
Tired of using, employing, lining the pockets of home defense products, and exterminator's.
Consider calling the media to light the fire....Anyone???? on board.
One voice is weak, but the hoard deafening...
Beleagured in WV!!
Ask the Exterminator
18 Aug 2010, 12:25
18 Aug 2010, 12:25
I have several articles on stink bugs and brown mamorated stink bugs. Some
of the articles discuss the work being done by Rutgers University. A
solution will not happen overnight.
TCB
18 Aug 2010, 12:35
18 Aug 2010, 12:35
Hey BSMB fighter:
Just a thought, since the beetle bag with lures attract, the same principle can be applied to stinkers?
Kill them, place dead in a sealed container, transfer to beetle bags, bait dead ones emit the stink.
Place away from house, I dunno, think I will give this a try.
P.S. I know from reading universities,county extension have experimented with lures... but perhaps the occam's razor principle here?
Just a thought, since the beetle bag with lures attract, the same principle can be applied to stinkers?
Kill them, place dead in a sealed container, transfer to beetle bags, bait dead ones emit the stink.
Place away from house, I dunno, think I will give this a try.
P.S. I know from reading universities,county extension have experimented with lures... but perhaps the occam's razor principle here?
BMSB fighter in WV
19 Aug 2010, 09:28
19 Aug 2010, 09:28
TCB, I know the type of beetle trap you mention. I used the beetle trap 2
or 3 summers ago when the Japanese Beetles were in such high numbers in our
area (oh, and by the way, hello neighbors in the eastern panhandle). In the
case of the commercial sex lure for the beetle use with that bag, we must
have actually brough beetles from miles around. It was attrocious. But what
you are talking about in just using the natural level of stink from a few
BMSB's, should not be a problem. I wonder though; the dimensions of the bag
might need to be different, though - BMSB's are much more capable crawlers
and the inside of that bag won't be nice enough to keep them. With the
commercial lure used for beetles and the beetles' bulkiness, I got the
impression the inside of the bag was like a nightclub, and all the kids
were on exstacy..know what I mean?
If you give it a try and don't get the results desired, don't be too quick to give up on the concept; might just need to play with the variables. Tighter constriction at the top of the bag, put it in the sunlight to warm the bag(?), etc.
You can buy flypaper at walmart, and should be able to get them at home depot or lowes.
The new media has done stories on the situation but they haven't met the likes of us yet - self motivated and self educated people with the gumption and willingness to speak out. Writing/speaking skilld help, too. I fully intend to contact the media when my zapper is done and fully tested. It will be done this weekend, but it won't be tested for a few weeks, and by then it won't help anyone else this year, but maybe have people thinking about next swarming season.
Don't remove your fruit trees. But maybe put a big commercial zapper (till my variant is commercially available? ;) ) out near them on a pole. As long as you can kill them at night, they might not eat your fruit by day. Of course, if you haven't seen evidence of them getting into the fruit they might not like that type. I think they go for the softer more succulent types of fruit like peaches, tomatoes, etc. Apples might be too 'grainy' and hard skinned? Not sure.
I might try contacting my state reps about this...as soon as other issues with which they have been working with me are dealt with ( ;p ) . I don't want to be hounding them about too many things. :)
If you give it a try and don't get the results desired, don't be too quick to give up on the concept; might just need to play with the variables. Tighter constriction at the top of the bag, put it in the sunlight to warm the bag(?), etc.
You can buy flypaper at walmart, and should be able to get them at home depot or lowes.
The new media has done stories on the situation but they haven't met the likes of us yet - self motivated and self educated people with the gumption and willingness to speak out. Writing/speaking skilld help, too. I fully intend to contact the media when my zapper is done and fully tested. It will be done this weekend, but it won't be tested for a few weeks, and by then it won't help anyone else this year, but maybe have people thinking about next swarming season.
Don't remove your fruit trees. But maybe put a big commercial zapper (till my variant is commercially available? ;) ) out near them on a pole. As long as you can kill them at night, they might not eat your fruit by day. Of course, if you haven't seen evidence of them getting into the fruit they might not like that type. I think they go for the softer more succulent types of fruit like peaches, tomatoes, etc. Apples might be too 'grainy' and hard skinned? Not sure.
I might try contacting my state reps about this...as soon as other issues with which they have been working with me are dealt with ( ;p ) . I don't want to be hounding them about too many things. :)
Ask the Exterminator
19 Aug 2010, 09:33
19 Aug 2010, 09:33
Just capturing stink bugs in a bag will not necessarily attract other stink
bugs. The Japanese beetle bags contain a sex pheromone that draws them in.
BMSB fighter in WV
19 Aug 2010, 09:39
19 Aug 2010, 09:39
Ask the Exterminator: are you saying that the stinky smell the BMSB's put
out when bothered does not in fact attract more of them? So many discussion
boards, blogs etc have seemed to be saying it does, to the point where the
laymen such as myself have just about taken it as gospel.
BMSB fighter in WV
19 Aug 2010, 09:46
19 Aug 2010, 09:46
Of course, on the topic of sex pheromone lures, it seems to me that it
would be better if there was a compound which neutralized or otherwise
masked their natural pheromone, rather than producing a synthetic version
of it. Or better yet, a good repellent. I wonder if anyone has searched
through asian data to find out what they know about them. I think I would
not at all be surprised if since their languages and writings are so
different from ours and this issue is so localized in fairly rural areas
where people are not liable to know Japanese, Chinese or Korean, that
nobody had actually done any research of what was written about them in
asia. Just sayin'.
Ask the Exterminator
19 Aug 2010, 10:29
19 Aug 2010, 10:29
Some stinkbugs use special odors to attract mates. Smelling the odors helps
partners find each other. Perhaps, when stink bugs are crushed, these odors
are released, attracting other stink bugs. But, I don't believe it is the
defensive odor that draws other stink bugs.
BMSB fighter in WV
19 Aug 2010, 14:36
19 Aug 2010, 14:36
Ask the Exterminator: I see. Yes, I was thinking that when they are upset
they put out a bunch of things, but perhaps it is only crushing them which
releases those additional attractive compounds. Well then, if that is the
case then my flypaper trapping them should not be artificially attracting
more; I was worried it might be.
TCB
20 Aug 2010, 19:04
20 Aug 2010, 19:04
BMSB fighter in [hey neighbor] WV ET AL
Thank you again for the information.
Some news to report on recommendation's/ experiment.
Per some bloggers reporting success with
hot tap water & Dawn dish soap decided that I would go a step further.
As of today Friday August 20, 2010
everywhere I sprayed the solution the
stinkers stayed away. The ratios that I
used were 1gal of hot tap water- generous couple of squirts of Dawn Dish
soap. So in conclusion at the writing,
not only does the solution kill em, it seems to repel.
While this is only preliminary, I haven't seen any hanging on my entry, i.e. garage, front/back/basement entry.
The downsize - the spray will impede the view from any windows, but it is working. That is one side effect I can live with.
Thank you again for the information.
Some news to report on recommendation's/ experiment.
Per some bloggers reporting success with
hot tap water & Dawn dish soap decided that I would go a step further.
As of today Friday August 20, 2010
everywhere I sprayed the solution the
stinkers stayed away. The ratios that I
used were 1gal of hot tap water- generous couple of squirts of Dawn Dish
soap. So in conclusion at the writing,
not only does the solution kill em, it seems to repel.
While this is only preliminary, I haven't seen any hanging on my entry, i.e. garage, front/back/basement entry.
The downsize - the spray will impede the view from any windows, but it is working. That is one side effect I can live with.
BMSB fighter in WV
20 Aug 2010, 23:38
So let me get this straight....
Soapy water sprayed all over your house is keeping them away?
Okay, I'd much rather have soap on my house than permethrin. Gonna join costco or sam's club to buy dawn in bulk!
I will also have my BMSB zapper 1st prototype on and in use tomorrow night! This will be fun...
20 Aug 2010, 23:38
So let me get this straight....
Soapy water sprayed all over your house is keeping them away?
Okay, I'd much rather have soap on my house than permethrin. Gonna join costco or sam's club to buy dawn in bulk!
I will also have my BMSB zapper 1st prototype on and in use tomorrow night! This will be fun...
TCB
21 Aug 2010, 11:47
21 Aug 2010, 11:47
BMSB fighter is WV:
YES! Saturday August 21, prelim results as of today are positive~ stinkers staying high up on the house. However, found they are in the trees, shrubs, but not like last [late]Summer/Fall. So far, staying off the entry ways, but it is very hot today. Variables.
Will keep the blog posted if the results continue effectively.
Saturate deck railings, windows and crevices. Make sure to reapply every other day, rain may impact. But the chemical in the dish soap does kill them on contact, actually knocks em down on their backs..then aim..kills almost instantly. You have to make sure you saturate the house as best you can until it drips down siding, and/or whatever surface.
Take special care to get the entry ways
around the home. Limit opening windows on pleasant days.
* fellow train commuter, said he is sealing around window screens with clear silicone, only the windows he wants to open. The results is positive, he found stinkers can not penetrate the silicone. When the season is over he just peels the silicone off.
Oh BTW, our landscaper reports, many homeowners are finding stinkers in the fireplaces, that includes, wood-burning,
direct/no direct vent gas fireplaces.
We have seen them crawling around in ours[direct vent] fireplace,and crawling into our home vis a vie.
YES! Saturday August 21, prelim results as of today are positive~ stinkers staying high up on the house. However, found they are in the trees, shrubs, but not like last [late]Summer/Fall. So far, staying off the entry ways, but it is very hot today. Variables.
Will keep the blog posted if the results continue effectively.
Saturate deck railings, windows and crevices. Make sure to reapply every other day, rain may impact. But the chemical in the dish soap does kill them on contact, actually knocks em down on their backs..then aim..kills almost instantly. You have to make sure you saturate the house as best you can until it drips down siding, and/or whatever surface.
Take special care to get the entry ways
around the home. Limit opening windows on pleasant days.
* fellow train commuter, said he is sealing around window screens with clear silicone, only the windows he wants to open. The results is positive, he found stinkers can not penetrate the silicone. When the season is over he just peels the silicone off.
Oh BTW, our landscaper reports, many homeowners are finding stinkers in the fireplaces, that includes, wood-burning,
direct/no direct vent gas fireplaces.
We have seen them crawling around in ours[direct vent] fireplace,and crawling into our home vis a vie.
At War
23 Aug 2010, 11:20
23 Aug 2010, 11:20
I live in Woodstock, MD, very woodsy area. Started seeing the bugs in
great abundance last fall....I too hate these bugs...I have choses to keep
windows closed and use 'anysoap' and water to capture them and flush
later....they find their way into curtain creases and any dark place...i
have also found them while spring cleaning just buried in a
comforter....yuk! Nonetheless, ihave found a home, some place where I
don't feel alone lol lol....my husband thinks I am over reacting "why did
you move to the woods" he asks....I reply that these critters were not
around and...PS: they are everywhere not just here.....I continue my fight
against these nasty critters and will dedicate my Ortho sprayer this cause
lol Just wanted to thank you all for posting such informative comments..I
greatly appreciate it and will indeed stayed tuned for some of the
'inventions' mentioned...Good luck!
At War
23 Aug 2010, 13:35
23 Aug 2010, 13:35
Has anyone tried 'Bug Slayer' its posted as a new product that kills them
on contact?
Ask the Exterminator
23 Aug 2010, 13:42
23 Aug 2010, 13:42
It's just Deltamethrin, the same old product with a new name. Ask the
Exterminator sells it as Delta Dust and D Force HPX. We sell it cheaper,
too.
Spiders
23 Aug 2010, 15:52
23 Aug 2010, 15:52
I have a 100-yr old home that cannot be completely sealed. These bastards
were getting in the attic and coming down from there. I tried all of the
normal combat techniques, but pesticides seemed to have little effect &
then the bugs would just come back worse. I noticed that pesticides quickly
worked on the normal attic spiders killing them in a flash. I also noticed
that the bugs liked hanging out on the window frames and glass. I was
sucking them up with a vacuum as it seemed the only way to quickly grab
100's of these pests before they could fly off. Once again the spiders got
sucked up too. 2 years ago, I stopped because I seemed to be losing the
battle. At the end of that summer, I checked in the attic, and found ZERO
living bugs. The window sills were covered with dead bugs and there were
little spider webs in the corners of all the windows with the dead bodies
of stinkers caught in them. After cleaning up the mess, I left the spiders
and their webs alone wherever possible. Last summer I had 1/10 the bug
problem, with the notable bodies of a new battle waged in the attic. In
short, make sure you aren't killing the naturally occurring spiders in the
corners of your home. They are capable of killing many many bugs and do it
silently, stink-free and leave you the bodies in neat little piles to clean
up. When the eggs first hatch you will see a few bugs in your living area,
then the spiders exact their revenge and the bugs are toast. This has
worked for 2 years in a row now, and while I still have to deal with them,
it's 20-30 in a years time instead of the countless 100's I used to deal
with yet each year the body count is still in the 100's so it's not like
they went away. The overall numbers are decreasing though as fewer eggs are
being laid. I'm not saying to let your house be overtaken with cobwebs, yet
wherever you can let the spiders do their work, especially in attics. All
hail the mighty (yet tiny) house spiders!
GMJ
23 Aug 2010, 22:25
23 Aug 2010, 22:25
I'm in Catonsville, MD and we have these little buggers like crazy! We have
tried everything available to the public with no luck! We have a friend
thats an exterminator and told us there isn't really anything out there
that will get rid of them permenatly and to stop waisting our money. We
seem to only notice them outside in all over the walls and they seem to
only get inside when the kids hold the doors open to long. In talking with
our neighbors we have noticed that the neighbors that have cats don't seem
to see them inside and they neighbors w/o pets do have them inside
soooooooo it seems like the best way to keep them away is to get a cat! We
have two and a shih-tzu that likes to eat bugs too! When I was doing the
laundry the other day there was one sitting on the wall next to
me.........when it flew a little lower on the wall the cat jumped up on the
dryer and snatched it up and ran away............problem solved!
DawntheSBKiller
24 Aug 2010, 11:31
24 Aug 2010, 11:31
for TCB...
thanks for the advice, I used the dish detergent (same name as mine) and water, did a test sprayed on the back screen door...so far no stink bugs congregating there...I live in Pittsburgh, Pa and these things are out of control...no one can seem to do anything about them, it's like from July through beginning of November being in prison...we cannot open windows, must rush through doors, they are in the car...the other day myself and the kids went through the drive-thru at Mcdonalds, they have bushes right outside the window, the stink bugs beginning flying on and into the car (ruined appetite), now I keep insecticide in the car...they are at all the swimming pools, amusement parks... just everywhere...and I will be contacting my state rep, it just is unbelievable to me that a bug can cause so much trouble, and because the powers that be think they are not a big agricultural threat we should just learn to live with them...what about us...I am sick and tired of these 'things'!!! the only thing I got to look forward to in the summer is hot weather and stink bugs, that's not right.
thanks for the advice, I used the dish detergent (same name as mine) and water, did a test sprayed on the back screen door...so far no stink bugs congregating there...I live in Pittsburgh, Pa and these things are out of control...no one can seem to do anything about them, it's like from July through beginning of November being in prison...we cannot open windows, must rush through doors, they are in the car...the other day myself and the kids went through the drive-thru at Mcdonalds, they have bushes right outside the window, the stink bugs beginning flying on and into the car (ruined appetite), now I keep insecticide in the car...they are at all the swimming pools, amusement parks... just everywhere...and I will be contacting my state rep, it just is unbelievable to me that a bug can cause so much trouble, and because the powers that be think they are not a big agricultural threat we should just learn to live with them...what about us...I am sick and tired of these 'things'!!! the only thing I got to look forward to in the summer is hot weather and stink bugs, that's not right.
TCB
24 Aug 2010, 12:28
DawntheSBkiller:
You are welcome! We are in this together, last fall 2010 was an extreme eye opener for my family. We moved to the Eastern panhandle of WV and had no idea that such a major problem had developed up and down the eastern seaboard. North and South of the Mason/Dixon!
With that said, we suffered as fools quite the Fall/Winter. Since then, educating and taking to the blogs and reading what folks have used to combat these invaders are rather useful in application. While I try to be environmentally conscientious, using commercial products, i.e. exterminators
chemical compounds is not an option, but a last resort. Sorry Exterminator Guy.
However, if the dawn/hot water solution indicates positive results, then I am all for it.
One other product we are using "Home Defense" purchased the granules to sprinkle around the parameter home foundation. Water in to activate, seems to help along with the dawn/water solution too! Realizing this may ALL be premature results..but Day 5 and no stinkers to be seen, on the house.
Sure they are laying in wait, but the temps here today are highs 72, with night time temp in the 60's. So as the weather fluctuates, only can speculate as to the continued positive results.
Will keep updating the blog, at least weekly.
If you are new here, good to have reinforcements..lol
BMSB Fighter has some excellent information,anxiously awaiting posted results.
Keep up the Resistance...
P.S. Strange today haven't seen a one, always on guard...creepy but a good creepy!
24 Aug 2010, 12:28
DawntheSBkiller:
You are welcome! We are in this together, last fall 2010 was an extreme eye opener for my family. We moved to the Eastern panhandle of WV and had no idea that such a major problem had developed up and down the eastern seaboard. North and South of the Mason/Dixon!
With that said, we suffered as fools quite the Fall/Winter. Since then, educating and taking to the blogs and reading what folks have used to combat these invaders are rather useful in application. While I try to be environmentally conscientious, using commercial products, i.e. exterminators
chemical compounds is not an option, but a last resort. Sorry Exterminator Guy.
However, if the dawn/hot water solution indicates positive results, then I am all for it.
One other product we are using "Home Defense" purchased the granules to sprinkle around the parameter home foundation. Water in to activate, seems to help along with the dawn/water solution too! Realizing this may ALL be premature results..but Day 5 and no stinkers to be seen, on the house.
Sure they are laying in wait, but the temps here today are highs 72, with night time temp in the 60's. So as the weather fluctuates, only can speculate as to the continued positive results.
Will keep updating the blog, at least weekly.
If you are new here, good to have reinforcements..lol
BMSB Fighter has some excellent information,anxiously awaiting posted results.
Keep up the Resistance...
P.S. Strange today haven't seen a one, always on guard...creepy but a good creepy!
Ask the Exterminator
24 Aug 2010, 12:37
24 Aug 2010, 12:37
I'm all for pest solutions without pesticides. However, when you do need a
pesticide I would appreciate if you would buy them from my website. Thanks!
Michelle
24 Aug 2010, 22:18
24 Aug 2010, 22:18
I too wish someone, ANYONE, would get this infestation under control. They
are all over the outside of house every fall evening. I didnt see any all
summer and was hoping with all my will that they were gone for good.
Wrong.
One got in my bedroom last night through the cracks around my ac window unit. Now Ive had to seal off the ac even though I am here sweating my *ss off. I had the Orkin man spray my house last fall and that did reduce them considerable, but the only problem with that is he has to come back about every two months.
This is so terrible, I am a woman and I live alone so sealing and caulking every open nook and cranny is not something I would even remotely know how to do. I am actually thinking about moving. I feel nervous every single night that another one will get in. I am in Pittsburgh by the way.
One got in my bedroom last night through the cracks around my ac window unit. Now Ive had to seal off the ac even though I am here sweating my *ss off. I had the Orkin man spray my house last fall and that did reduce them considerable, but the only problem with that is he has to come back about every two months.
This is so terrible, I am a woman and I live alone so sealing and caulking every open nook and cranny is not something I would even remotely know how to do. I am actually thinking about moving. I feel nervous every single night that another one will get in. I am in Pittsburgh by the way.
BMSB fighter in WV
25 Aug 2010, 15:38
25 Aug 2010, 15:38
Okay, I haven't finished my zapper; had to reverse engineer the inner
circuitry of the commercial zapper I gleaned the componentry from, but will
soon finish and will keep you posted.
In the mean time, folks you can buy commercial zappers and get the white-light flourescent buls for them. I don't think they will be as good as incandescent ones like my zapper will have but it will be a start. Also, they will clog up often, whereas mine won't.
I did however buy some YELLOW power saver type bulbs that go in threaded incandescent-type sockets. Apparently people in other countries and in older less-technologically advanced days here in the US, everyone seemed to know that yellow light doesn't attract flying bugs! I feel like an idiot not to have been using yellow outdoor lights all this time. Eegad. So anyway, yes go out and buy yellow outdoor bulbs; the flourescent ones put out less eat to make the same lumens of light as an incandescent bulbs do.
Enjoy. Oh, and since I switced, the spiders are back en force! And yes I had notice that the big spiders we have in the eastern panhandle love to esat baby nymph BMSB's. LOT's of dead nymphs under my porch with their bodies eaten away (we also get preying mantii too, but not nearly as much as spiders).
In the mean time, folks you can buy commercial zappers and get the white-light flourescent buls for them. I don't think they will be as good as incandescent ones like my zapper will have but it will be a start. Also, they will clog up often, whereas mine won't.
I did however buy some YELLOW power saver type bulbs that go in threaded incandescent-type sockets. Apparently people in other countries and in older less-technologically advanced days here in the US, everyone seemed to know that yellow light doesn't attract flying bugs! I feel like an idiot not to have been using yellow outdoor lights all this time. Eegad. So anyway, yes go out and buy yellow outdoor bulbs; the flourescent ones put out less eat to make the same lumens of light as an incandescent bulbs do.
Enjoy. Oh, and since I switced, the spiders are back en force! And yes I had notice that the big spiders we have in the eastern panhandle love to esat baby nymph BMSB's. LOT's of dead nymphs under my porch with their bodies eaten away (we also get preying mantii too, but not nearly as much as spiders).
BMSB fighter in WV
26 Aug 2010, 00:59
26 Aug 2010, 00:59
So it occured to me why the spiders seem to be going after the stinkbugs so
much - since I am now using yellow outdoor lights the usual suspects, so to
speak, of flying insects are not attracted, but stinkbugs are now the sole
thing in their webs.
Not that they wouldn't go for BMSB's usually, just I usually have tons of other things flying around my outdoor lights.
The dawn/water solution does seem to be repelling them within reason. A cheap $20 hand-pump sprayer filled and on hand is great for going out midday to spray them and the house.
There are so so many of these BMSB's in the trees and bushes. It's so disgusting! I'm really going to rake up the refuse leaves in the fall this year; it's supposed to get rid of the hibernating ones.
Not that they wouldn't go for BMSB's usually, just I usually have tons of other things flying around my outdoor lights.
The dawn/water solution does seem to be repelling them within reason. A cheap $20 hand-pump sprayer filled and on hand is great for going out midday to spray them and the house.
There are so so many of these BMSB's in the trees and bushes. It's so disgusting! I'm really going to rake up the refuse leaves in the fall this year; it's supposed to get rid of the hibernating ones.
TCB
26 Aug 2010, 15:13
26 Aug 2010, 15:13
Day 7 Dawn Dish Soap/ Hot Tap Water
still working fairly well.
*side note spraying more, seeing increased activity.
Yesterday Tuesday, dusted my shrubs, sprayed the trees with All Seasons Oil.
For Eastern Panhandle Bloggers et al
Called Senator Byrds office spoke with
Cookie, referred to the interim Senator
Goodwins office. Please call his office directly. Number can be found on internet/google.
We have a satellite Federal USDA office here 304.263.7547 I pressed 6 @ the prompt and spoke with Carla.
Washington DC USDA office 202-224-3954
Federal office of Akins 304-229-5828
Left messages for our local USDA will call back on Monday if I haven't heard.
If anyone is interested in contacting the National/Local Media
Channel 7 on your side main #
703-236-9555 the reporter handling the investigative reports is Steve Cheta
703-236-9555
Please if you can call all of the Federal agencies, your State Rep, and News!
Hope this helps! Will keep everyone updated as I get the information.
FYI Local Dept of Agriculture per Carla,
"nothing is proving to be effective".
In a nutshell, there simply is not enough information either on the Internet or via our government officials.
Get on the phones folks!
still working fairly well.
*side note spraying more, seeing increased activity.
Yesterday Tuesday, dusted my shrubs, sprayed the trees with All Seasons Oil.
For Eastern Panhandle Bloggers et al
Called Senator Byrds office spoke with
Cookie, referred to the interim Senator
Goodwins office. Please call his office directly. Number can be found on internet/google.
We have a satellite Federal USDA office here 304.263.7547 I pressed 6 @ the prompt and spoke with Carla.
Washington DC USDA office 202-224-3954
Federal office of Akins 304-229-5828
Left messages for our local USDA will call back on Monday if I haven't heard.
If anyone is interested in contacting the National/Local Media
Channel 7 on your side main #
703-236-9555 the reporter handling the investigative reports is Steve Cheta
703-236-9555
Please if you can call all of the Federal agencies, your State Rep, and News!
Hope this helps! Will keep everyone updated as I get the information.
FYI Local Dept of Agriculture per Carla,
"nothing is proving to be effective".
In a nutshell, there simply is not enough information either on the Internet or via our government officials.
Get on the phones folks!
TCB
26 Aug 2010, 15:17
26 Aug 2010, 15:17
BMSB fighter in WV
Thank you for the information, please keep us updated.
Kara, glad the liquid soap/h2o is working for you. Hope you share your results too.
Thank you for the information, please keep us updated.
Kara, glad the liquid soap/h2o is working for you. Hope you share your results too.
TCB
26 Aug 2010, 15:55
26 Aug 2010, 15:55
Update:
Spoke with Daniel @ the transitioning
Senator Goodwin office 202-224-3954
Outlined the problem here with the BMSB
and addressed the various states inundated. Asked WHY our officials have not addressed the problem. No answer other than we respond to constituents by mail.
Not very happy to hear our elected official office response.
Will follow up with News 7 and report back.
FYI Charleston not reporting any problems spoke with Jennifer in Sen. Byrd office outgoing staff.
This is unbelievable, my concern with the increased use in chemicals what is this doing to our Eco. EPA problem????
Spoke with Daniel @ the transitioning
Senator Goodwin office 202-224-3954
Outlined the problem here with the BMSB
and addressed the various states inundated. Asked WHY our officials have not addressed the problem. No answer other than we respond to constituents by mail.
Not very happy to hear our elected official office response.
Will follow up with News 7 and report back.
FYI Charleston not reporting any problems spoke with Jennifer in Sen. Byrd office outgoing staff.
This is unbelievable, my concern with the increased use in chemicals what is this doing to our Eco. EPA problem????
BMSB fighter in WV
26 Aug 2010, 19:25
26 Aug 2010, 19:25
Wow, so many points to cover!
Kara, BE AWARE - that Dawn/water solution *can* actually kill your plants! That is, if you use more than a drop or two per gallon. So I surey hope you didn't kill your nice flowers. Speaking of flowers, my spouse found some person is selling a "how to be rid of stinkbugs forever" type Ebook for like $16 (which I am apprehensive about), and in some of the 'teaser' info given in the advert', he says to get rid of all flowering shrubs around your house - that they are a breeding place for BMSB's and the nymphs will just hop on over on your house easily, which increases your chances of infestation as the nymphs get bigger and as the fall time approaches.
TCB - hey why are you contacting the US Congress reps? I think you want to be contacting the WV Congress members. Try Senator Unger! He's awesome and he DOES jump on the issues and responds personally, via EMAIL. Sorry I don't have his info handy. He's the senator for Berkeley county but not morgan or jefferson, but he will still listen and be an advocate, and if he doesn't, let me know about it!
Okay, that's enough for now. I will soon be posting some all-natural tried and tested and proven concoction recipes I got from a friend with agricultural professor ties in Australia. I just need to get the text into a form I can paste here; it is not copyright protected.
Good fighting!
Kara, BE AWARE - that Dawn/water solution *can* actually kill your plants! That is, if you use more than a drop or two per gallon. So I surey hope you didn't kill your nice flowers. Speaking of flowers, my spouse found some person is selling a "how to be rid of stinkbugs forever" type Ebook for like $16 (which I am apprehensive about), and in some of the 'teaser' info given in the advert', he says to get rid of all flowering shrubs around your house - that they are a breeding place for BMSB's and the nymphs will just hop on over on your house easily, which increases your chances of infestation as the nymphs get bigger and as the fall time approaches.
TCB - hey why are you contacting the US Congress reps? I think you want to be contacting the WV Congress members. Try Senator Unger! He's awesome and he DOES jump on the issues and responds personally, via EMAIL. Sorry I don't have his info handy. He's the senator for Berkeley county but not morgan or jefferson, but he will still listen and be an advocate, and if he doesn't, let me know about it!
Okay, that's enough for now. I will soon be posting some all-natural tried and tested and proven concoction recipes I got from a friend with agricultural professor ties in Australia. I just need to get the text into a form I can paste here; it is not copyright protected.
Good fighting!
BMSB fighter in WV
26 Aug 2010, 19:44
26 Aug 2010, 19:44
Forgot to mention:
A colleague of mine is married to a Biologist who has studied bugs and he said that his wife explained that the reason that Dawn dish detergent kills bugs (in general) is that bugs eat things with Dawn on them and once they have consumed it, it causes them to ...okay this is the weird part...to poop themself to death! Now, if that is in fact true, that is hilarious on many levels, eh? But really, I'm happy to think that it kills them by suffocation if sprayed on them, but by diarrea if they consume it ;p
Boric acid kills bugs from the inside out that can be coaxed into eating it by mixing it with confectioner's sugar (some ants, cockroaches, etc), by turning from a powder to a liquid acid and dissolving their insides away :D
And diatomaceous earth powder literally mechanically cuts their exoskelaton away and causes them not to be protected from dehydrating.
But boric acid and diatomacceous earth probably are hard to get onto/into BMSB's, especially while they are outside; that's more of a killing method for inside your house, but honestly flypaper in my opinion will be the best method inside (if not an indoor zapper); just hang flypaper under youur lights/lamps this fall/winter if you are getting them inside. It will catch them. They don't want to divebomb or attack you. But they are attracted to light and lightbulb warmth so best to make use of that to your advantage.
Cheers
A colleague of mine is married to a Biologist who has studied bugs and he said that his wife explained that the reason that Dawn dish detergent kills bugs (in general) is that bugs eat things with Dawn on them and once they have consumed it, it causes them to ...okay this is the weird part...to poop themself to death! Now, if that is in fact true, that is hilarious on many levels, eh? But really, I'm happy to think that it kills them by suffocation if sprayed on them, but by diarrea if they consume it ;p
Boric acid kills bugs from the inside out that can be coaxed into eating it by mixing it with confectioner's sugar (some ants, cockroaches, etc), by turning from a powder to a liquid acid and dissolving their insides away :D
And diatomaceous earth powder literally mechanically cuts their exoskelaton away and causes them not to be protected from dehydrating.
But boric acid and diatomacceous earth probably are hard to get onto/into BMSB's, especially while they are outside; that's more of a killing method for inside your house, but honestly flypaper in my opinion will be the best method inside (if not an indoor zapper); just hang flypaper under youur lights/lamps this fall/winter if you are getting them inside. It will catch them. They don't want to divebomb or attack you. But they are attracted to light and lightbulb warmth so best to make use of that to your advantage.
Cheers
BMSB fighter in WV
26 Aug 2010, 19:50
26 Aug 2010, 19:50
Hey TCB, I think WV should create a new state empolyee position/office -
Ofiice of Stink Bug Control. I would volunteer to be its first director; I
truly would. Nothing I want more than to helpmy great state of West ByGod
to be free from the blight of BMSB's.
BMSB fighter in WV
27 Aug 2010, 02:35
27 Aug 2010, 02:35
So here's a quick re-cap of non-toxic, relatively low cost steps to deal
with stink bugs outside the home:
-Yellow bulbs to limit flying insects, or no lights on otside if you feel safe and comfortable with that
-Make sure to use opaque blinds/curtains
-Seal your house well: check door and window seal/gasketting
-Fly paper used near lights outside (and later inside after the weather changes if they come inside)
-Foster conditions for spiders to thrive
-Avoid having flowering shrubs and trees right up against your home/porch
-Keep dead leaves raked up and burnt before spring (ideally by the end of fall)
-Use a Dawn dishsoap and water mixture to spray them and your siding during the day
-try to keep mothbballs around your house; if you limit flying insects the spiders will go after the BMSB's
-use bug zappers, with white bulbs
-avoid squishing or upsetting them in or outside your home
-as the weather cools down, don't leave windows and doors open
We can slowly add to the list. The reality is that BMSB's are going to be here for years to come and they will require a change in lifestyle in order to keep our homes free from infestation. Sad but true.
-Yellow bulbs to limit flying insects, or no lights on otside if you feel safe and comfortable with that
-Make sure to use opaque blinds/curtains
-Seal your house well: check door and window seal/gasketting
-Fly paper used near lights outside (and later inside after the weather changes if they come inside)
-Foster conditions for spiders to thrive
-Avoid having flowering shrubs and trees right up against your home/porch
-Keep dead leaves raked up and burnt before spring (ideally by the end of fall)
-Use a Dawn dishsoap and water mixture to spray them and your siding during the day
-try to keep mothbballs around your house; if you limit flying insects the spiders will go after the BMSB's
-use bug zappers, with white bulbs
-avoid squishing or upsetting them in or outside your home
-as the weather cools down, don't leave windows and doors open
We can slowly add to the list. The reality is that BMSB's are going to be here for years to come and they will require a change in lifestyle in order to keep our homes free from infestation. Sad but true.
Kara
27 Aug 2010, 13:45
27 Aug 2010, 13:45
Hello, fellow Eastern Panhandlers and others who are fighting the good
fight against SBs. BMSB fighter, thanks for posting the list of non-toxic
tips. I just began to realize the value of spiders the other day after a
SB landed on me, I brushed it off and it flew straight into a spider web.
Ha ha, perfect! Later I saw the spider working on it, and upon inspecting
the outside of the house, I noticed others caught in spider webs. I never
cared for spiders, but now they're welcome here (outside).
Re. the Dawn dish detergent, it definitely helped...48 hours later, there are far fewer SBs than the other day. This weekend we'll be sealing up the house as much as possible and then hoping for the best.
I'm afraid it's true that SBs are here to stay, at least in the near term, and that we are going to have to alter our lifestyles to keep them out of our homes. I used to like to open the windows on cool evenings, but no more. We have a lot of flowers/flowering plants around the outside of the house and on the deck, but I'm just going to have to scale it back in the future. I'm also taking note of which plants SBs prefer and which they seem to be leaving alone.
TCB, thanks for your efforts in trying to draw more attention to these nasty little monsters. Hopefully someone will take notice sooner than later.
Everyone have a great weekend, and good luck!
Re. the Dawn dish detergent, it definitely helped...48 hours later, there are far fewer SBs than the other day. This weekend we'll be sealing up the house as much as possible and then hoping for the best.
I'm afraid it's true that SBs are here to stay, at least in the near term, and that we are going to have to alter our lifestyles to keep them out of our homes. I used to like to open the windows on cool evenings, but no more. We have a lot of flowers/flowering plants around the outside of the house and on the deck, but I'm just going to have to scale it back in the future. I'm also taking note of which plants SBs prefer and which they seem to be leaving alone.
TCB, thanks for your efforts in trying to draw more attention to these nasty little monsters. Hopefully someone will take notice sooner than later.
Everyone have a great weekend, and good luck!
TCB
27 Aug 2010, 18:04
27 Aug 2010, 18:04
BMSB fighter and Kara et al:
Thank you for the updates.
Tonight heading out instead of enjoying my weekend, shopping for suggested items, ugh. Guess tomorrow will be spent sealing the house, spraying, dusting the trees/shrubs.
Kara, the solution of Dawn/Hot-water I should have stated that I only use on the siding, windows/crevices, deck surface and railings. If you should use on plants/shrubs/trees dilute this per
BMSB fighter suggestions. The ratios I suggested[sorry that I did not elaborate]
are really extra strong.
So that all knows, the solution on day 8
is starting to attract them, not sure that after I kill em, they release the odor and attract more? However, the solution is still positive.
BMSB fighter great list of suggestions,
I am worried by placing a bug zapper in the yard will bring more. The principle in theory I agree will kill em, but perhaps will attract more too?
The dust on the shrubs on day4 shows good results. We cancelled an exterminator, but rescheduled for Sept mid way into the month, per a neighbors recommendation. Neighbors have been in the area for 5 years, said mid September for permethrin, then again early October provided good results last year.
*side note* fellow commuter stated that the clear silicone around the inside screen sealed perfectly to keep SB's outside. Seal only the windows you want to open, per my earlier post up-thread , then peel the caulk off when winter sets in.
Thanks for the information, will post when or if I get any feedback vis a vie tour elected officials, the media.
Good Weekend.
Thank you for the updates.
Tonight heading out instead of enjoying my weekend, shopping for suggested items, ugh. Guess tomorrow will be spent sealing the house, spraying, dusting the trees/shrubs.
Kara, the solution of Dawn/Hot-water I should have stated that I only use on the siding, windows/crevices, deck surface and railings. If you should use on plants/shrubs/trees dilute this per
BMSB fighter suggestions. The ratios I suggested[sorry that I did not elaborate]
are really extra strong.
So that all knows, the solution on day 8
is starting to attract them, not sure that after I kill em, they release the odor and attract more? However, the solution is still positive.
BMSB fighter great list of suggestions,
I am worried by placing a bug zapper in the yard will bring more. The principle in theory I agree will kill em, but perhaps will attract more too?
The dust on the shrubs on day4 shows good results. We cancelled an exterminator, but rescheduled for Sept mid way into the month, per a neighbors recommendation. Neighbors have been in the area for 5 years, said mid September for permethrin, then again early October provided good results last year.
*side note* fellow commuter stated that the clear silicone around the inside screen sealed perfectly to keep SB's outside. Seal only the windows you want to open, per my earlier post up-thread , then peel the caulk off when winter sets in.
Thanks for the information, will post when or if I get any feedback vis a vie tour elected officials, the media.
Good Weekend.
TCB
27 Aug 2010, 18:12
27 Aug 2010, 18:12
"vis a vie OUR elected officials"
some posts are stating sealing the house up, but there are areas around foundation = weep holes for drainage. Sure you guys already know this.
Good Hunting!
Salute
some posts are stating sealing the house up, but there are areas around foundation = weep holes for drainage. Sure you guys already know this.
Good Hunting!
Salute
Jbird
29 Aug 2010, 11:02
29 Aug 2010, 11:02
Massive kill on the front!!! bought a product from Southern States and it
works!! Talstar-P It kills everything so make sure that you have any stray
praying mantis out of the area, 1 ounce to a gallon of water. (sprayer
recommended) I mixed 5gal. treated the whole exterior of my house, eaves,
sofits, siding, drip edge of shingles, with in 1 hour, they were showing
the effects, its a slow kill, but, it knocks them down!, last night I
noticed a lilac bush at the back of my lot that was meeting ground, mixed
a gallon, and took care of business, checked the bush at 11a.m. and the
ground is covered with them!! This shit is killer! Literally. Make sure
that any pets water dishes are flipped over and cleaned out after the spray
is complete. (Active ingredient is Bifenthrin) 1 pint is about $30 but it
makes 30gal. Be careful about what you don't want to kill.
Ask the Exterminator
29 Aug 2010, 20:58
29 Aug 2010, 20:58
Talstar is available on my website for a lot less. Please visit
http://shop.asktheexterminator.com/talstar-pro.html.
Kara
30 Aug 2010, 08:14
30 Aug 2010, 08:14
Well, there are many more SBs around today than there were even a few days
ago...I guess the swarm has begun. I counted 8 or 9 on one window
yesterday afternoon; they seem to prefer a few windows over the others.
Hopefully our efforts this weekend will keep them out of the house.
There's a streetlight nearby, and I noticed tons of them swarming around it
last night - not sure if this is a blessing or a curse. I think maybe the
former since it draws them away from the house when it gets dark. Our
electric bill will surely be going down since we're keeping fewer lights on
at night. Windows are never opened, outside doors are opened/shut quickly,
and the shades are closed every evening when the sun goes down. It's a
bizarre way to live, but whatever it takes to keep these gross creatures
out of the house. Spiders have turned out to be valuable allies, as well
as the Dawn/water solution. I keep a bowl of it (covered) on the deck;
when I'm out there, I get the little dum-dums to crawl onto a flyswatter
and then into the bowl they go. No smell except the faintly pleasant scent
of Dawn. Those who resist get zapped with the electric flyswatter. Both
of these methods have therapeutic value, too. For those who like to
garden, I've noticed that they completely avoid marigolds, geraniums and
yellow lantana. On the other hand, they love hibiscus, mandevilla and
multicolored lantana. They are all over a maple tree in our front yard but
seem to be leaving the other trees alone. I think this is going to be a
bad fall and that since there's no way to completely eradicate them from
the yard, the best defense is to keep them OUTSIDE.
JackiePhilly
30 Aug 2010, 09:54
30 Aug 2010, 09:54
I totally skeeve these bugs. Right now, as I am typing...there are at
least 3 stinkbugs on the outside frame of my sliding deck door. It's like
they're asking to be invited in for some breakfast lol. But seriously, in
the past week or so, I have noticed a hell of a lot more of them. I'm
wondering if it's because the temperature dropped down to the 60's at night
making it cooler(typical late august weather). I feel like I'm being
invaded. I shouldn't have to scan my doorframe before I go out onto my
deck. Who the hell do these bugs think they are?! Ugh... maybe we should
contact our local news or state rep. I think I'm going to start 1st by
writing an email to my local news station. Not sure what they can do...but
maybe our gross concerns about these sick things will be heard.
Luann
30 Aug 2010, 13:00
30 Aug 2010, 13:00
Here they come! I have been finding a stinker here and there outside my
home in NorthWestern NJ. Every day there is another one making an
appearance. Once the cool September nights are upon us, they will be
crawling on the house by the hundreds! Last fall, my husband caught over
2,000 in a vacuum (with a hepa bag). Last Sunday's local newspaper
featured the stinker as front page news. The publication indicated that
some research will be conducted in the stinker's homeland of Asia to find
it's preditor (I hope it's not a snake!!) The writer also explained that
these stinkers flatten themselves out to get into the cracks and crevices
in our homes (I could never figure that one out). This year I am going to
try oil of pepperment to see if that will help keep them at a distance
(besides tape, caulk, soap, etc.) I will keep you posted!
Katie
30 Aug 2010, 14:17
30 Aug 2010, 14:17
Does anyone know if those electric zappers work on them?
5,000+ In Frederick MD
30 Aug 2010, 18:57
30 Aug 2010, 18:57
Over 5,000 on the outside of the house early last night. Clusters in the
100's. Have to try Dawn mixture, don't want to stain siding with poisons.
At least it isn't cool yet, so there aren't many inside! Have a feeling
this will be a losing battle, and will end up vacuuming up 5 a day all
winter again.
Jbird
30 Aug 2010, 23:59
30 Aug 2010, 23:59
Hey 5,000+ In Fredneck MD, get the Talstar and hit the house during sunset,
it will stay moist longer and the kill time will be extended because the
sun won't dry out the spray also the air is still. Works great! make sure
the other critters are out of the way
BMSB Fighter in WV
31 Aug 2010, 00:02
31 Aug 2010, 00:02
All I have to update the forum with is that a coworker's spouse tried
citronella oil around their doorframe and it seemed to repel them a bit. I
wanted to get a tad bit more detail than that but for now was unable to
clarify that any further.
Sorry that I've not had a chance to get together that list of recipes for keeping them off plants. The sad reality is, and as one person noted, they are already into full swarm and seem to be getting beyond nymph stage into young adulthood, so trying to keep them off plants now is past it's usefulness - they've already laid their eggs for the year and they've hatched. Now it's time to fight them off our homes as much as possible.
This really really stinks...pun sadly intended :(
Sorry that I've not had a chance to get together that list of recipes for keeping them off plants. The sad reality is, and as one person noted, they are already into full swarm and seem to be getting beyond nymph stage into young adulthood, so trying to keep them off plants now is past it's usefulness - they've already laid their eggs for the year and they've hatched. Now it's time to fight them off our homes as much as possible.
This really really stinks...pun sadly intended :(
David in Pa.
31 Aug 2010, 02:50
31 Aug 2010, 02:50
I have been at war with these Brown stink bugs, I have caught them in old
pop bottles, sprayed for them, they seem to just walk right through the
windows, doors etc, might as well not even have doors or screens. Well its
been about 3 years ,and being on meds I haven't been thinking with most of
my brain. I sprayed gasoline on the pricks ,they DIE on contact, well I did
the attic, 2nd flr screens , around the doors I was like total "spraying
death",
then from nowhere a spark...my new 2 story house, along with every stinkbug in or near it burned to the ground ! Now I got NO MORE stinking stink bugs. So far they haven't come down here in the hole. Ahh, peace at last.
then from nowhere a spark...my new 2 story house, along with every stinkbug in or near it burned to the ground ! Now I got NO MORE stinking stink bugs. So far they haven't come down here in the hole. Ahh, peace at last.
TCB
31 Aug 2010, 11:45
31 Aug 2010, 11:45
Good Day
Update via Channel 7 Washington DC News
Steve C. is out on bereavement leave per my call last week.
This morning spoke with Dan, he stated,"Would pass the information on to their "Editorial Meeting". In short, he took my number, someone would follow up.
Synopsis~ discussed the blogs on the BMSB infestation and the lack of Officials informing the public. Mentioned contacting local State Rep.
and the aloof response. Asked WHY the DEPT of Agricultural/States non-reporting infestation are not providing necessary
options? Explained that people are using mass quantities of chemicals, and what may result in negative eco effects. Finally, WHY isn't their news coverage locally/nationally?
There you have it, will keep the blog updated when I hear a response.
Now not be hypocritical,lol
but for all [especially my fellow West Virginian] "Tractor Supply" sells a product called "Ground Work", active Permethrin. Product is sold ready to spray with garden hose & concentrate. Cost $9.99 for spray $12.99 for concentrate.
side note* over the weekend sealed the outside window screens with clear silicone caulk, we have NOT seen any SB's inside the screens we caulked.
We have not opened any windows on cool evenings to date, watching if the bugs can penetrate, so far not a one inside the screens we sealed!!!
Update via Channel 7 Washington DC News
Steve C. is out on bereavement leave per my call last week.
This morning spoke with Dan, he stated,"Would pass the information on to their "Editorial Meeting". In short, he took my number, someone would follow up.
Synopsis~ discussed the blogs on the BMSB infestation and the lack of Officials informing the public. Mentioned contacting local State Rep.
and the aloof response. Asked WHY the DEPT of Agricultural/States non-reporting infestation are not providing necessary
options? Explained that people are using mass quantities of chemicals, and what may result in negative eco effects. Finally, WHY isn't their news coverage locally/nationally?
There you have it, will keep the blog updated when I hear a response.
Now not be hypocritical,lol
but for all [especially my fellow West Virginian] "Tractor Supply" sells a product called "Ground Work", active Permethrin. Product is sold ready to spray with garden hose & concentrate. Cost $9.99 for spray $12.99 for concentrate.
side note* over the weekend sealed the outside window screens with clear silicone caulk, we have NOT seen any SB's inside the screens we caulked.
We have not opened any windows on cool evenings to date, watching if the bugs can penetrate, so far not a one inside the screens we sealed!!!
TCB
31 Aug 2010, 11:49
31 Aug 2010, 11:49
Ask the Exterminator Guy, thank you for a place to exchange information.
Ask the Exterminator
31 Aug 2010, 12:42
31 Aug 2010, 12:42
You are welcome, TCB. I do ask that you not direct people away from my
website to buy their products. I sell a professional-level product that is
far superior to the product you mentioned. My product, when properly mixed,
makes up to 48 gallons of finished product. Much less expensive than what
you have recommended.
And, rather than use expensive silicone caulk, we, as pros, use Xcluder, which is also sold on my website.
And, rather than use expensive silicone caulk, we, as pros, use Xcluder, which is also sold on my website.
DRM
31 Aug 2010, 14:41
31 Aug 2010, 14:41
I found a cluster of extremely small stink bugs attached to my lace
curtain. I looked at images on the internet and it looked just like a
cluster of hatched eggs. I had stink bugs in my house ALL winter. My
husband believes they are laying eggs in the house somewhere. It's very
frustrating getting woken up at night because a stink bug is flying around
your head, landing on you, then spraying your sheets when YOU startle them!
Any new ideas?
DRM
31 Aug 2010, 14:54
31 Aug 2010, 14:54
After reading several comments on this page, I'm going to order some
pesticide. I'm not going to put up with another winter of SBs. I tried to
leave my house the other day and couldn't open a door without them flying
in. I'm finding crushed SBs in the door frame and it's really creeping me
out! Last Halloween, in between trick-or-treaters, I washed my door frame
from crushed stinkbugs, nice huh?
Kara
31 Aug 2010, 18:09
31 Aug 2010, 18:09
I second TCB's thank you, Exterminator Guy; this site has been so helpful.
We have not seen any SBs inside the house yet either, but they sure are out
there in force now. The temperature is supposed to drop into the 50's at
night by the weekend, so that might be an initial test of how well we did
sealing up the windows, etc.
TCB, good work contacting WJLA...I hope it pays off.
TCB, good work contacting WJLA...I hope it pays off.
Miranda
31 Aug 2010, 23:45
31 Aug 2010, 23:45
Seems like I'm not the only one in PA with this problem...I had a swarm of
them in my bedroom last winter (AC was removed before then.) They attatched
to my curtains in my windows (One curtain had at least 20 but I also lost
count.)Right now I seem to having the problem again. I have a bunch in my
lamp in my bedroom and had a few in my bed which grossed me out big time. I
also had one drop from the kitchen ceiling into my hair. I read that they
eat plants but do they seek humans out for a sense of warmth or as a snack?
I am a loss for what to do. I am a severe asthmatic and am allergic to
aerosol so I'm not sure if bombing will make me sick. All I know is I want
to be able to sleep in my bed at night knowing I'm not gonna wake up with
creepy crawlers on me.
DRM
01 Sep 2010, 10:38
01 Sep 2010, 10:38
Miranda, I feel your pain! But it seems you have it worse than me. I'm
going to try to nip it in the bud and get my husband to spray before it
gets too bad again. Sorry to say this but...you may need to invest in a
mosquito net for your bed! They my really pretty decorative ones now:)
Amanda
01 Sep 2010, 14:16
01 Sep 2010, 14:16
I'm in Pittsburgh and have been fighting stink bugs earlier this year than
last year. I'm armed with my Windex and am killing them every day when
they land on the outside of my screens. If I find one inside the porch, I
catch it in a Reynolds cupcake liner container, put that sucker in the
freezer and flush the dead thing away. That's my motto---catch 'em, freeze
'em, flush 'em! That container comes in very handy if they get into the
house. Easy on the walls.
I saw the ones that got away fly into our locust trees. I am going to try the outdoor bug zapper to see if I can get rid of them before they use my house for a winter home.
I saw the ones that got away fly into our locust trees. I am going to try the outdoor bug zapper to see if I can get rid of them before they use my house for a winter home.
DMK
01 Sep 2010, 16:25
01 Sep 2010, 16:25
PRAISE THE LORD ! And Ask The Exterminator for this forum !!! We are from
SD, here in WV to work for 1-2 years. We live in a WHITE 36ft 5th wheel RV
with three slides...rubber gaskets seal out the weather, but not the SB !!
The SBs are covering the sides of the trailer.UGH! Last night I caught
up about 50 bugs coming in around the slides & put them back outside. THAT
won't be happening again, I'm killing them now. So far today I've tried
picking them up with duct tape...that's a little to close & personal for
me. Then I tried the shop-vac & I'm not sure how I'm going to get them out
of it...I plugged the hose with plastic wrap to keep them in ! Ha! Now
I'm catching them with two paper bowls. When you knock them off the wall
or ceiling they fall down into the bowl. Them I'm dropping them into a
plastic bag where I hope they suffocate. I don't know if I can stand
another night like last night. I didn't sleep well. At least the mad rush
to get into the RV seemed to only last from about 3:00 PM to about 9:00PM.
Now I have the AC set on 60 degrees hoping that they won't come in because
it is to cold ! Which isn't working because I just looked up from typing &
there are 3 on the ceiling. NUTS. I'll try the dawn soap as soon as I can
get a sprayer. I don't think it will damage the rubber gaskets...I hope.
Anyway, thanks for the forum & I sure hope we don't end up taking these
bugs back to South Dakota when we go back.
Amanda
01 Sep 2010, 16:38
01 Sep 2010, 16:38
DMK--Believe it or not, they won't suffocate. We caught 2 in an empty
peanut butter jar with a twist on lid the very first time they started
invading our house and 3 weeks later they were still moving! The one thing
they hate is cold so that's why I put them in the freezer. Only takes a
couple of minute to kill them. The only good stink bug is a dead stink
bug. This summer my husband used caulking to seal all around the windows,
garage doors and doors. I'm hoping that will help. I think I remember
from this site last year that some people are getting Home Defense from
Home Depot to spray on their homes. Maybe that would help with your RV.
DMK
01 Sep 2010, 16:51
01 Sep 2010, 16:51
Into the freezer they go. I have 5 stuck on the duct tape, 12 in the
plastic bag & about 5 in the shop vac...and it isn't even 5:00PM yet. It
is going to be a long night. The low temperature in the house seems to
slow them down a bit too. Sure am glad the electricity is included in the
site rent ! We have two heat pumps on top...I wonder if they are full of
SBs. And I'm afraid to open our big storage in the underbelly for fear
I'll let bugs in there too. And now I'm off to trap two more that I
see....
DMK
01 Sep 2010, 17:21
01 Sep 2010, 17:21
The cold freezer killed them ! Thanks
Amanda
01 Sep 2010, 20:17
01 Sep 2010, 20:17
Yep. That freezer is my best friend. I just read that marigolds and
garlic plants repel stink bugs. Anyone try that or notice if that truly
works?
Liz
01 Sep 2010, 20:30
01 Sep 2010, 20:30
I've read this thread with great interest as we are literally under seige
here in the Northern Virginia area. I'm going to give the Dawn solution a
try. For the past three years I've been vacuuming the buggers up or
flushing them after they've been caught. Today I literally went to every
window in the house (110 years old with original windows - that itself is
adding to the problem probably!), shook the things or vaccuumed them out of
the storm window and wood window channels and then shut the storm windows
up as tightly as I could.
BMSB fighter in WV
01 Sep 2010, 21:36
01 Sep 2010, 21:36
Gee, I hate to be a harbinger of bad news, but the freezer may not kill
them as some here have been suggesting. Consider that these bugs live all
winter in a hibernated type state. I've been told that BMSB's actually are
believed to live for 4 to 5 years! So, yeah, freezing won't necessarily
kill them per se. What it may possibly be doing is forcing them into
hybernation and then you end up throwing their seemingly dead bodies out
before they warm up and wake up. I'm not saying that *is* what is
happening, but they do make it through the winter time in hibernation, so
we know they can survive sub-freezing temperatures.
I REALLY need to get my zapper built!
I REALLY need to get my zapper built!
DMK
02 Sep 2010, 08:33
02 Sep 2010, 08:33
Well...their legs are falling off in the freezer bag. Of course that may
be from my rough treatment ! I guess I just don't want to see them wiggling
around in the bag & trying to get out when I add a new bug to the bag. I'll
take a hammer to the bag before I put it into the trash. Unless they
really are replicators like my husband suggests...that ought to get them!
My count for last night was 35 so the inside cold temperature must have
helped some. Or, it didn't get cold enough outside last night for them to
try to come in. My great fear now is that when we start to travel again
I'll be taking them with me to infest other areas of the country...like
straight down the I-81 corridor spreading the nasty things every place we
stop for the night.
Kara
02 Sep 2010, 12:14
02 Sep 2010, 12:14
Amanda - I have marigolds, and the SBs do leave them alone. I haven't
found one on them even though I've found them nearby on other flowers.
I've also read that they don't like mums or mint - going to get a pot of
mums to see if that's true.
Amanda
02 Sep 2010, 14:17
02 Sep 2010, 14:17
Kara--I do have a few pots of marigolds around the front yard and haven't
seen any bugs there. I never really thought to look before I read about
it. The mums and mint sound like good ones to try too.
BMSB fighter in WV--I have had great success freezing and killing them. I use a small plastic container and when I take it out of the freezer, the bugs are on their backs with their little legs in the air. Like a Raid commercial. As a matter of fact, I caught one in the house last winter and put the jar with the bug in it out in the snow. Come spring, he was still dead. So, freezing and flushing works for me.
BMSB fighter in WV--I have had great success freezing and killing them. I use a small plastic container and when I take it out of the freezer, the bugs are on their backs with their little legs in the air. Like a Raid commercial. As a matter of fact, I caught one in the house last winter and put the jar with the bug in it out in the snow. Come spring, he was still dead. So, freezing and flushing works for me.
BMSB fighter in WV
02 Sep 2010, 20:36
02 Sep 2010, 20:36
I've decided that I want to try an all natural formulation of things they
don't like, and spray that around all the entry ways (doors and windows,
sophet) in addition to caulking with temporary caulk around windows and
gasketting doors well. I've accepted that I can't kill them exclusively in
my yard with chemicals without killing everything else too, and even then,
there's plenty more beyond my yard. So, I'm just going to settle for a well
sealed house and use strong essential oils to hopefully ward them off from
places they would normally try to sneak into.
Come late fall and I'm gonna start taking unecessary shrubs/bushes out. And next year I'll be using sprays to kill or repel them from using plantlife in my yard to lay eggs, as much as possible.
Come late fall and I'm gonna start taking unecessary shrubs/bushes out. And next year I'll be using sprays to kill or repel them from using plantlife in my yard to lay eggs, as much as possible.
BMSB fighter in WV
02 Sep 2010, 20:42
02 Sep 2010, 20:42
I should add that I am still going to be using a zapper and dawn/water to
kill them, opportunistically. But since the weather is now warming up, it
is time to start implementing the next phase (repelling them and sealing
them out).
So the way I see it, in spring the best thing you can do is dust the plants they use for breeding more, then by middle late summer, kill them with zappers, sprays, chemicals, then late summer/early fall be sealing them out and repelling them. I think if you are diligent, you can experience a BMSB-free late fall-early spring. If they only stay outside, the battle is moslty won, I'd say. Mostly.
So the way I see it, in spring the best thing you can do is dust the plants they use for breeding more, then by middle late summer, kill them with zappers, sprays, chemicals, then late summer/early fall be sealing them out and repelling them. I think if you are diligent, you can experience a BMSB-free late fall-early spring. If they only stay outside, the battle is moslty won, I'd say. Mostly.
BMSB fighter in WV
02 Sep 2010, 22:49
02 Sep 2010, 22:49
I meant to say "cooling off", not "warming up" just now.
Amanda
02 Sep 2010, 23:12
02 Sep 2010, 23:12
We are going to put up the outdoor zapper. Where would be the best place?
Our yard is heavily wooded and I don't know if it should be closer to the
house or closer to the trees. Any suggestions?