Stink Bugs & Lady Beetles

Similarities

What do Stink Bugs and Lady Beetles have in common?

They belong outside and they stink!

Lady Bug Species

Little red spotted ladybugs fall under a few species: Asian Lady Beetles, Ladybugs, Ladybird beetles, etc.. and for the most part they are beneficial because they feed on scales and aphids in our trees and ornamental landscapes but when the temperatures begin to drop, they often seek shelter in structures like homes and businesses.  When these beetles enter to “overwinter” in large numbers they can become a real nuisance and in large numbers emit an unpleasant musty odor and some species release a foul-smelling yellow substance as a common defense mechanism.

Stink Bug Species

Multiple species of the infamous Stink Bug usually overshadow the Lady Beetles when it comes to smelly home invaders. The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug can be found in high numbers in and around structures as temperatures drop. While temperature changes are a major reason for a Stink bugs home invasion some species can find their way indoors on fall garden produce like squash and pumpkins.  The next time you are picking out your favorite pumpkin for fall decorating see if you can spot a stink bug or two.