The list of native natural enemies that attack brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) includes other species of insects, spiders, and even some birds and mammals. For instance, birds to a certain extent, feed on BMSB adults[1], and small mammals such as rats may feed on BMSB eggs[2].
Killing a stink bug does not attract more stink bugs. To keep your home from becoming attractive to stink bugs, seal up windows and foundations to prevent their entry and quickly removing any stink bugs that find their way in by hand or with a vacuum. Stink bugs begin to emerge in spring and early summer.
Tillman has shown that buckwheat and other nectar-producing plants can attract and nourish the types of beneficial wasps that control stink bugs. Providing these natural enemies of stink bugs with nectar in the spring allows them to develop in woodlands and move into the crops in the summer to parasitize stink bugs.
While stink bugs themselves are smelly creatures, scents we consider pleasant aren't well-received by these pests. So, what essential oils do stink bugs hate? Clove oil, lemongrass oil, spearmint oil, and Ylang Ylang oil are a few of the essential oils stink bugs find themselves shying away from.
The good news is that stink bugs don't bite. They also don't harm people or pets, nor do they spread disease. However, some people are allergic to the compounds released by the stink bug. Symptoms of this allergy can include a runny nose and, if you come in contact with crushed bugs, dermatitis.
Stink bugs are attracted to the warmth and shelter of your house, and will enter through any cracks and openings. You should seal openings with caulk to keep them out, and don't forget to check screens on windows and doors for holes as well! Light also attracts stink bugs to your house.
Cedar has been used as an insect repellent for many years. People have built cedar closets in their homes. They have also used cedar hangers and put cedar blocks in dresser drawers to keep moths away from their clothes. Some studies suggest that the cedar repels insects because of the smell of the cedar oil.
Killing a stink bug does not attract more stink bugs. To keep your home from becoming attractive to stink bugs, seal up windows and foundations to prevent their entry and quickly removing any stink bugs that find their way in by hand or with a vacuum. Stink bugs begin to emerge in spring and early summer.