10 Things To Consider When Getting Rid Of Stink Bugs In Braintree, Massachusetts
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With the summer season comes a flurry of bugs. From wasps and mosquitoes to ants and flies, there is no shortage of unwanted guests in your yard and home. One of the more prominent pests this season is the stink bug ? an annoying, smelly invader that can be found in droves around the towns of Braintree and other parts of Massachusetts. While it can be difficult to get rid of stink bugs once they have settled in, there are some steps you can take to prevent and eliminate stink bug populations. Read on to learn the top 10 things to consider when trying to get rid of stink bugs in Braintree, Massachusetts.
Introduction to Stink Bugs in Braintree
Stink bugs, also known as shield bugs, are very common pests in the state of Massachusetts. Found most prominently in gardens, orchards, and farms, stink bugs were first introduced to the United States in the late 1980s in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Inexpensive to ship and fairly easy to reproduce, stink bugs soon spread throughout the East Coast of the US. This includes Massachusetts, where they are most often found in the cities and towns of Metro Boston, as well as Braintree.
Stink bugs have a recognizable shape and have earned their name due to the foul odor they produce when disturbed. These pests feed heavily on garden plants and fruits such as apples, corn, and citrus, making stink bug removal an important task for homeowners in the Braintree area.
1. Identify the Problem
Before you can take steps to get rid of stink bugs in your home or yard, it helps to identify what type of bug problem you have. Many pests share similar appearances and behaviors, and what may appear to be a stink bug may be another type of pest altogether. Taking a close look at a specimen and using the identifier tool on the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture’s website can help you determine what type of bug you are dealing with.
2. Remove Hiding Places
Stink bugs typically hide in dark, damp places. They are often found indoors near windows, doors, and vents as well as in stacks of firewood. Taking proactive steps to remove these hiding spots can make your home less inviting to stink bugs and deter them from entering.
3. Knock-Down Stink Bugs Physically
Stink bugs tend to stay put when disturbed, making them an ideal target for physical removal. This can be done by using a vacuum, a broom, or a dustpan to sweep up stink bugs. They can then be disposed of in the outdoor garbage.
4. Make Use of Traps
Traps can be an effective way to get rid of stink bugs. Pest traps, such as sticky insect traps, are available for purchase and can be placed in areas where stink bugs commonly linger, such as near doorways and windows.
5. Use Essential Oils and Natural Solutions
There are several natural solutions that can be used to get rid of stink bugs, including essential oils, soapy water, and diatomaceous earth. Essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus can be used to non-toxic spray or wipe areas where stink bugs feast, while soapy water can be used as a spray solution. Diatomaceous earth is an effective natural, non-toxic alternative that can be used to get rid of stinkbugs.
6. Inspect for Entry Points
It can be difficult to keep stink bugs and other pests at bay if entry points in your home are not identified and sealed. Be sure to inspect any likely entryways and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent pests from entering the home.
7. Educate Yourself on Stink Bug Habits
Knowing when and where stink bugs emerge can help you make better preparations for their prevention and removal. Stink bugs are more active in the spring, feeding on flowers and fruits before they go into hibernation during the winter months.
8. Contact a Professional
If you are unable to get rid of stink bug populations yourself, it is best to contact a professional pest control company. Professional exterminators are experienced in identifying and addressing pest infestations, including dealing with stubborn stink bugs.
9. Make Use of Beneficial Insects
Some beneficial insects can help keep stink bug populations in check. Ladybugs, for example, are predatory and feed on both other insects and pollen, making them a safe and natural way to keep stink bug numbers in check.
10. Practice Integrated Pest Management
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to pest control and consists of a combination of cultural, mechanical, and chemical practices that work to prevent and reduce pests. Implementing IPM can help make your yard and home less appealing to pests and reduce the need for chemical treatments.
Conclusion
Stink bugs can be a frustrating problem for homeowners in the Braintree area, but there are steps you can take to get rid of them. Identifying the problem, removing hiding spots, making use of traps, and utilizing natural solutions and beneficial insects are all effective methods of stink bug removal. For an even greater level of protection, practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and contact a professional for help if necessary. F&W’s integrated pest management approach (IPM) provides the professional quality you need with the environmentally responsible quality of a DIY approach. Trust the expert exterminators at F&W to get rid of your mosquitoes this season. Get a free quote to start debugging your space today.
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