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Stink Bug Extermination, Control & Removal

A Brown Marmorated Stink Bug sitting on a leaf

EFFECTIVE. AFFORDABLE. COMPLETE.

You have a Stinkbug Problem, and we have the solution.

The Pestex Promise

Effective Extermination

When it comes to Stinkbugs efficacy is essential. These pests are odorous and can be very hard to pinpoint, so you need a solution that works efficiently and provides complete coverage. Pestex delivers fast and effective results, using the latest techniques, products, and tools to get the job done right the first time.

Affordable & Transparent Pricing

No one likes unexpected costs, and we’re no different. At Pestex, we offer affordable and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We believe in honest communication and provide clear quotes before starting any work. This way, you know exactly what to expect, and there are no surprises.

Certified, Licensed, & Experienced Team

Our team consists of experienced and certified technicians who are experts in pest control. They are trained to handle even the most challenging infestations while remaining professional, relying on their experience and skill. With Pestex, you can trust that your home is in capable hands.

Environmentally Friendly Extermination Services

We care about the environment as much as we care about eliminating pests. Our extermination methods are designed to be environmentally friendly, minimizing the impact on your surroundings while effectively dealing with Stinkbugs. All of our products and practices are approved by the Ministry of Environment.

Our Stink Bug Extermination & Removal Process

Stink Bug Sitting On A Wooden Table

If you’re dealing with a stink bug infestation, you know how frustrating and disgusting it can be. These pests are not only annoying and discomforting, but can quickly become a recurring problem in your home. At Pestex, we understand the hassle stink bugs cause, and our stink bug extermination process is designed to be thorough, efficient, and safe for your home.

Inspection and Identification

 We start with a thorough inspection to identify the location and extent of the infestation. Here, we come up with a plan to address the infestation and take the necessary steps to ensure effective removal.

Customized Treatment Plan

We start by inspecting your property to locate the stink bugs and determine the extent of the infestation. Stink bugs can hide in various places, particularly in cracks, window sills, and even behind walls. Identifying the type of stink bug is also crucial since it helps us tailor the most effective treatment for your specific issue.

Extermination

Our expert technicians will then apply targeted treatments to exterminate the stink bugs in your home. These treatments are designed to be effective yet safe for children, pets, and the environment. We also focus on treating common entry points to ensure these pests don’t find their way back inside in the future.

Sealing Entry Points

One of the main reasons stink bugs get inside is through small gaps and cracks in your home’s structure. As part of our process, we seal off these entry points, including areas around windows, doors, and vents. We use a variety of products like mesh and steel wool that efficiently seals and protects your home from all pests. This step is crucial in preventing future infestations and ensuring your home stays pest-free.

Preventative Measures and Follow-Up

After the extermination, we provide you with tips and preventative measures to avoid future stink bug issues. This can include regular inspections, keeping outdoor lights to a minimum (since stink bugs are attracted to light), and proper maintenance of your home’s exterior. We also offer follow-up visits to ensure the infestation is completely eradicated and your home remains protected.

Why Choose Pestex for Stink Bug Removal?

  • Expert Knowledge: We’ve been helping homeowners across Ontario handle stubborn stink bug infestations for years. Our methods are based on proven techniques and a deep understanding of pest behavior.
  • Customized Solutions: Every home is different, and we tailor our approach to fit your needs.
  • Environmentally Friendly Options: We offer eco-friendly pest control solutions for those looking to minimize the use of environmentally destructive products.
  • Preventative Focus: We don’t just eliminate stink bugs; we help you prevent them from coming back in the future.

Dealing with stink bugs? Let us help you take back control of your home. Contact us today to schedule a visit and discuss our stink bug removal process.

Stink Bug Identification, Life Cycle, Species, & Behaviour

Dealing with stink bugs in your home can be frustrating. These pests are not only a nuisance, but they emit a strong, unpleasant odour when threatened or crushed. At Pestex, we understand how crucial it is to properly identify stink bugs, understand their life cycle, and learn about their behaviour to effectively manage an infestation. Here’s everything you need to know to stay ahead of these troublesome insects:

Identifying Stink Bugs

Stink bugs, particularly the brown marmorated stink bug (the most common species in Ontario), are recognizable by their distinctive shield-shaped bodies. They’re typically about 1.7 cm in size and range in colour from brown to grey, with some species displaying green or even patterned markings.

Key features to identify stink bugs:

  • Shape: Shield-like bodies, wider at the shoulders, tapering toward the bottom.
  • Colour: Brown, grey, green, sometimes with spots or streaks.
  • Antennae: Long, straight antennae, usually about half the length of their body.
  • Wings: Stink bugs have four wings, with the outer wings often showing a unique pattern.

They often hide in cracks, window frames, and inside walls, making them difficult to notice until the infestation has grown.

Life Cycle of Stink Bugs

Understanding the life cycle of stink bugs can help you take preventive measures before a full-blown infestation occurs.

  1. Egg Stage: Female stink bugs lay clusters of eggs on the undersides of leaves, especially in warmer months. These eggs are typically barrel-shaped and hatch within a week or two depending on the temperature.
  2. Nymph Stage: Upon hatching, stink bug nymphs go through several developmental stages called instars. During these stages, they resemble small adults but lack fully developed wings. They molt as they grow and gradually gain adult features.
  3. Adult Stage: Once fully matured, adult stink bugs seek shelter in homes, especially during the fall, to survive the winter. During this time, they enter a state called diapause, where their activity slows until spring arrives.

From egg to adult, the entire stink bug life cycle takes several weeks to complete, with most reproduction occurring during the warmer months.

Common Stink Bug Species in Ontario

Several stink bug species can be found across Ontario, but the brown marmorated stink bug is the most concerning for homeowners as it is the most common invader.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys)

This invasive species is brown with lighter and darker bands on the wings and antennae. Known for its foul smell, it becomes a household pest when temperatures drop, as it seeks warmth indoors for the winter months to come.

Green Stink Bug (Chinavia hilaris)

These bugs are bright green and primarily found in gardens, feeding on crops. While not as common inside homes, they still cause damage to plants and crops.

Spined Soldier Bug (Podisus maculiventris)

A beneficial predatory species that feeds on other pests. Unlike other stink bugs, these are more helpful than harmful.

Stink Bug Behaviour

Stink bugs are notorious for their defensive odour. When they feel threatened or are squished, they release a pungent smell from glands located in their thorax. This natural defence mechanism deters predators and alerts others in the vicinity to danger, but inside your home it’s a big nuisance.

  • Feeding Habits: Stink bugs are primarily herbivores, feeding on fruits, vegetables, and other plants. Their piercing mouthparts allow them to puncture the surface of leaves, fruits, and stems to suck out nutrients, leaving behind small discoloured spots.
  • Seasonal Activity: In the spring and summer, stink bugs are highly active outdoors, but as the temperatures drop, they seek shelter indoors, often entering homes through small cracks or openings around windows, doors, and vents.
  • Indoor Behaviour: While stink bugs don’t reproduce indoors during the winter, they can invade your home as they seek warmth. They tend to gather around light sources and can often be found in attics, basements, and between walls.

How to Prevent Stink Bugs from Entering Your Home

If you want to avoid the headache of a stink bug infestation, prevention is key. Here are a few measures you can take:

  • Seal Cracks and Gaps: Ensure all entry points around windows, doors, and baseboards are sealed to prevent stink bugs from entering. 
  • Repair Screens: Ensure that window and door screens are in good condition, as even the smallest tear can provide an entry point for stink bugs to get through.
  • Reduce Outdoor Lighting: Stink bugs are attracted to light, so keeping outdoor lights to a minimum can help reduce their presence around your home.
  • Inspect Before Bringing Items Indoors: Check plants, fruits, and vegetables for stink bugs before bringing them inside during the fall. Alternatively, check your garden and be cognisant of any developing stink bug populations outside your home which may try to enter your home before the winter. 

Why Proper Stink Bug Identification Matters

Identifying the type of stink bug infesting your home or garden is crucial for selecting the right treatment method. Some stink bugs, like the brown marmorated species, require a more aggressive extermination focused approach, while others may simply be relocated.

At Pestex, we use our expertise to quickly identify and develop targeted solutions to eradicate stink bugs from your home. Contact us today for a comprehensive stink bug inspection and to learn more about our stink bug removal services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Stink Bugs?

Stink bugs are insects known for their distinctive shield-shaped bodies and their unpleasant smell, which they release when threatened or crushed. The most common species in Ontario is the brown marmorated stink bug. These pests often seek shelter indoors during the colder months but prefer to feed on fruits, vegetables, and plants during warmer seasons.

Why Do Stink Bugs Smell?

Stink bugs release a pungent odour as a defence mechanism when they feel threatened or when they are crushed. This smell comes from special glands located on their thorax. While harmless to humans, the smell can be quite unpleasant and may linger if stink bugs are squished inside your home. To avoid this, it’s better to carefully remove them without crushing their bodies or provoking them.

How Do Stink Bugs Get Inside My Home?

Stink bugs enter homes through small cracks, gaps, or openings around windows, doors, and other entry points. They’re particularly active in the fall when they’re looking for a warm place to overwinter. Sealing entry points and keeping windows and doors properly screened can help prevent them from getting inside.

Are Stink Bugs Harmful to Humans or Pets?

No, stink bugs do not bite or pose any direct harm to humans or pets. However, they can become a major nuisance due to their odour and tendency to congregate in large numbers. They can also cause damage to gardens and crops, making them a bigger issue for farmers and gardeners.

Do Stink Bugs Cause Damage to My Home?

While stink bugs don’t cause structural damage to homes like termites or carpenter ants, they can be an annoyance. Their presence, especially in large numbers, can make it uncomfortable to live in your home. Stink bugs are primarily agricultural pests and pose a more significant threat to crops than they do to buildings.

What should I do if I spot a wasp/hornet nest on my property?

Do not attempt to remove the nest yourself. DIY remedies may work, however they will often provoke the Hornets/Wasps and create a dangerous situation. It’s best to contact a professional pest control service like Pestex, to handle the situation safely and effectively.

How Do I Get Rid of Stink Bugs?

The best way to handle a stink bug infestation is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place by sealing cracks, repairing window screens, and reducing outdoor lighting. If you already have stink bugs indoors, vacuuming them up carefully without crushing them is an effective removal method. For larger infestations, professional pest control services are highly recommended. At Pestex, we offer stink bug removal services designed to eliminate stink bugs and keep them from coming back. Our experts use safe and effective methods that won’t leave your home smelling unpleasant.

Can Stink Bugs Reproduce Inside My House?

No, stink bugs do not reproduce indoors. They typically enter homes during the fall to find a warm place to overwinter and are inactive during this time. Stink bugs lay their eggs outdoors in the spring or summer, usually on the underside of leaves.

What Do Stink Bugs Eat?

Stink bugs are mostly herbivores and feed on a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and plants. Their needle-like mouthparts allow them to pierce the surface of plant material and suck out the juices. While they can cause significant damage to crops, they don’t typically feed on anything inside your home, especially during the winter months when they enter a state called diapause when they are less active until the spring.

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