Quick answer
What to know first
Stink bugs often gather on sunny exterior walls in fall, then enter cracks to overwinter. Prevention is most effective before seasonal movement begins.
Check first
- Shield-shaped insects on sunny walls or windows
- Indoor sightings near windows, attics, or light fixtures
- Clusters around siding gaps, screens, or roofline cracks
Avoid this
- Applying pesticides before identifying the pest or evidence
- Treating one symptom while moisture, food, or entry sources remain
- Skipping monitoring after the first cleanup or treatment
Overview
Stink bugs often gather on sunny exterior walls in fall, then enter cracks to overwinter. Prevention is most effective before seasonal movement begins.
Key signs to check
Shield-shaped insects on sunny walls or windows
Indoor sightings near windows, attics, or light fixtures
Clusters around siding gaps, screens, or roofline cracks
Strong odor when insects are crushed
What to do now
- 1Vacuum indoor bugs gently and empty the container outdoors.
- 2Seal gaps around windows, siding, vents, and utility openings.
- 3Repair screens and weatherstripping.
- 4Reduce unnecessary exterior lighting during peak movement.
Prevention checklist
Inspect exterior gaps before fall.
Use tight screens and vent covers.
Keep attic and window areas sealed.
Avoid crushing stink bugs indoors.
When to call a professional
Professional exterior prevention may help when large seasonal clusters appear every year or entry points are hard to seal.
FAQ
Do stink bugs reproduce indoors?
They usually overwinter indoors but do not typically reproduce inside homes.
Why do they smell?
They release defensive odor when disturbed or crushed.