Stink Bugs, Kudzu Bugs and Carpenter Bees Spring Into Action

This time of year, folks in our area are enjoying the budding flowers and warmer temperatures. Unfortunately, flowers are not the only thing popping up all over the place.  Stink Bugs, Kudzu Bugs and Carpenter Bees all spring into action in the early part of this season causing many headaches for homeowners.  Hughes Exterminators, a local pest and termite control company encourages residents to learn about these pests and the steps they can take to protect their homes from the invasion.  “All this wet weather we have experienced recently is sure to increase the populations of these pests,” said Hughes pest expert Charlie Jones.  “By taking a few simple steps, you can go a long way in preventing these pests from entering or damaging your home.”

Stink Bugs and Kudzu Bugs: Originally only a problem in a few states, both of these pests have now moved into many states across the country.  From the same family of insects, Stink Bugs and Kudzu Bugs make their biggest appearances in the spring and fall.  While they don’t transmit diseases, bite or sting, these “stinky” pests do emit a strong odor when frightened, disturbed or squashed and they can damage clothing, furniture and other fabrics with their droppings.  These pests are lazy by nature always looking for an easy route to get in homes.  Homeowners should always check themselves and their personal belongings before entering the home and make sure all screens on doors and windows are in good repair and all exterior cracks and crevices are sealed.

Carpenter Bees: These large bees have a slight resemblance to bumble bees, but their bare, shiny black abdomen is the best way to recognize them.  Much more than just a buzzing nuisance, Carpenter Bees can cause serious damage as they bore holes in wood to create nests to lay their eggs.  The male carpenter bees are the most aggressive, hovering in front of people that get near their nests, however they do not have stingers.  The female bees do have stingers, but will only sting if provoked.  Carpenter Bees are attracted to soft wood such as cedar, pine, redwood and cypress and prefer wood that is bare, weathered and unpainted.  They may target typical wooden objects found on and around the house including decks, shingles, fences, windowsills and wooden lawn furniture.  If homeowners are experiencing a problem with these insects, the best action to take is to call a professional pest control company.

Hughes protects homes from pests with the STEPS^® Total Protection System™, an industry-leading approach that utilizes Integrated Pest Management (IPM). STEPS includes a full property evaluation to pinpoint pest issues; identification of not only the pest, but the true cause of the problem; and treatment in the most environmentally responsible way to alleviate current issues and to help prevent future recurrences. Consumers interested in scheduling a free whole home evaluation can contact Hughes at www.hughes-exterminators.com or call 877-464-8443.