HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Stink bug season is here - and homeowners across Middle Tennessee aren't happy about it.
At U.S. Pest Protection in Hendersonville, more calls have been coming in asking for help eliminating the bugs.
Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs are more commonly known as just "Stink Bugs." They are easy to recognize because of the triangular-shaped plates on their backs. They are most active in the Fall, when the temperatures drop, as they begin invading homes in an effort to stay warm.
J.K. Brister, the Chief Executive Growth Officer of U.S. Pest Protection said the fluctuating temperatures this year are leading to an active bug season.
"When it gets a little cold, what they want to do is get in cracks and crevices. They get in your crawl space, and into the holes in your home you don’t even know you have," said Brister.
The bugs can also fly around rooms or crawl on walls and ceilings. Stink bugs are not harmful but can be a nuisance. They are known as Stink Bugs because they emit a strange odor when they are threatened or killed.
To keep them out of your home, make sure all windows, doors, ducts and attic overhangs are sealed to prevent entry. Brister said if you see some around your home, reach out to a professional for help.
"You can get rid of them, but you need a professional, said Brister. "We have the science, and we know what we are doing."
Brister said you can scoop up the bugs and put them back outside, or even flush them down the toilet, but don't squish them.
"If you squish them, you will be left with that odor in your house," said Brister.
Some have tried vacuuming stink bugs, but your vacuum might not smell great afterward.
Stink bugs can be found across Tennessee and in 32 other states.
