what causes stink bugs

Stink bugs are attracted to warmth and shelter, and they enter structures through cracks, crevices, gaps, and holes in foundations, window and door frames, soffits, attics, and underneath siding. They are also attracted to light, so keeping exterior lighting to a minimum and using blinds to reduce any light from inside the home from spilling out can help prevent them from entering. Stink bugs are not only serious agricultural pests of soybeans and corn but also many fruit and vegetables such as apples, apricots, pears, cherries, grapes, lima beans, peaches, peppers, and tomatoes. They are also known to feed on ornamental plants that grow close to homes and other buildings. Stink bugs hibernate in late summer and early fall, and shorter days and decreasing temperatures cause them to seek shelter for diapause, a period in their life cycle where they are inactive. When they locate a suitable location, they release an aggregation pheromone that attracts other stink bugs to the site. During their overwintering phase, they do not feed and do not reproduce. In fact, females are incapable of reproducing until early spring.