f you’ve got a stink bug problem in your home, you’re probably wondering whether this “stink” of theirs can make you or your pets sick. What’s inside this chemical spray, and is it poisonous? Will these little brown bugs cause any illness for you and your family?
I’m here to help you out with everything I’ve learned about stink bugs as a professional pest control technician. Keep reading below to find out more information!
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What Are Stink Bugs Actually Spraying Out?
First things first: what are stink bugs actually spraying out?
Well, there are a couple of different pheromones these insects use to attract mates, alert other stink bugs to suitable areas for shelter, and ward off predators. This chemical is the smelliest of them all, and humans encounter this one more often than not.
When stink bugs find a large portion of food to eat or a suitable place to seek refuge for the long, brutal winter, they release what’s known as the aggregation pheromone.
This chemical triggers a signal to nearby stink bugs to come closer and check out what the original stink bug found, be it a food supply or a shelter. This actually doesn’t stink; this chemical is separate from the stink bugs’ defense mechanism. Aggregation pheromones are odorless and simply serve to attract other stink bugs to resources. The pheromones are species-specific, meaning they only attract other stink bugs of the same species.
Read More: Why do stink bugs stink?
Another of the stink bug’s secretions is an attractant pheromone in order to locate a possible mate. What is interesting about the stink bug is that the usual male-to-female order of things applies — but this isn’t the only configuration that’s attracted to the pheromone.
Other males, nymphs, and sometimes even other species of stink bugs have sometimes responded to these pheromones! The attraction pheromones help stink bugs identify potential mates, even though they may inadvertently attract other stink bugs as well. The pheromones have a musty, cilantro-like odor to humans.
Normally, these chemicals don’t have that much of a smelly scent to humans — just other insects.
When stink bugs are threatened, they release a chemical made up of alkanes, aldehydes, and esters.
What this means for those of us who aren’t scientists: stink bugs emit an odor that’s built from chemicals commonly found in cilantro. Many people liken the stink of a stink bug to high-powered cilantro, while some others compare it to the spray of a skunk. Others, still, place the stench somewhere in between the two. The defense chemicals produce a pungent, long-lasting smell when released. The compounds remain on surfaces and skin even after stink bugs are removed.
When a stink bug feels endangered, it squeezes out a spray of this chemical in order to repel the predator. This is what makes stink bugs “stink” so badly — their secretion of a foul odor is all in the hope that the predator will retreat. The spray is not a poison, just an unpleasant odor meant to deter predators. Still, it can cause asthma attacks in sensitive individuals if inhaled.
Are Stink Bugs Poisonous?!
So, will these secretions hurt you? What if your dog or cat happens to swallow a stink bug whole? What are the risks involved if stink bugs decide to overwinter in your home?
Their Secretions
If you have the misfortune of staining your hands with a stink bug’s smelly parting gift — its defense secretion — have no fear.
This chemical isn’t poisonous at all, just incredibly unpleasant-smelling. You’ll have a hard time washing it off your hands, but it definitely won’t make you sick. The chemical is not toxic — though the odor can be nauseating. Use soap and water to remove the smell from your skin. Avoid touching your face and eyes after handling stink bugs.
Well… perhaps the smell could make your stomach turn.
Swallowing Them Whole
Let’s say, for instance, that your dog or cat eats a stink bug by accident. Should you be concerned?
Well, your furry friend may have an interesting time digesting this foreign food item, but that’s all. Stink bugs won’t cause any sort of illness in your pet, so no frenzied trips to the vet are necessary!
Stink bugs are not toxic if ingested, though pets may experience minor stomach upset from eating them. There is no need to induce vomiting unless your pet eats a large number of stink bugs.
Are Stink Bugs Dangerous?
Okay, so stink bugs aren’t “poisonous,” but do they pose any threat at all to a normal homeowner?
Well, unless you’re a farmer or someone who likes to maintain a healthy gardening habit, no, stink bugs are not dangerous to humans or pets. However, they can wreak havoc on crops and garden plants.
Stink bugs feed on various vegetable, fruit, and grain crops. They use their needle-like mouths to feed, leaving behind a necrotic-looking fruit. The feeding damage can ruin vegetable and fruit harvests, making stink bugs a costly threat for farmers and gardeners.
Final Thoughts On Stink Bugs Dangers
Despite their smelly reputations, stink bugs are harmless to humans and animals (but not fruit or vegetables). Yes, you read that correctly — stink bugs are not poisonous.
Whether you’ve got their predator-deterrent goop on your hands or your pet has (unfortunately) taken a big bite out of one of these little guys, they’re not going to hurt you. They can, however, damage crops and be a major nuisance when they invade homes. Promptly remove any stink bugs you find inside to prevent further infestations.
The bottom line? Stink bugs are not dangerous to humans, but can be a major nuisance and cause agricultural damage. Their foul-smelling spray is just for defense — it’s not toxic, but is very unpleasant. Be sure to take steps to exclude and remove stink bugs from your home.
FAQs About Stink Bugs
Are stink bugs poisonous to pets?
No, stink bugs are not poisonous to pets. Eating one may cause minor stomach aches, but does not require medical treatment unless many stink bugs are ingested.
How long does the stink bug smell last?
The pungent odor from a stink bug’s defensive spray can last for several hours on surfaces and skin. Thorough cleaning with soap and water is required to fully remove the smell.
What attracts stink bugs into homes?
Stink bugs enter homes through small cracks and openings seeking shelter as temperatures drop in autumn. Keeping your home well-sealed can help prevent infestations.
What plants do stink bugs attack?
Stink bugs feed on many fruits, vegetables, and grains. Some of their favorite crops include tomatoes, apples, peaches, corn, soybeans, peppers, and more. They pierce the plant tissue to feed, causing necrosis.
How do you make stink bugs go away?
To get rid of stink bugs, vacuum up any you see inside. Use screens, caulk, and weatherstripping to seal any entry points on windows, doors, and exterior walls. Traps and repellents can also help reduce populations around your home.
