Bug Identifier
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Community identification

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Halyomorpha halys

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Pentatomidae
Size
1.7 cm (0.67 in) long and about as wide.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found on agricultural crops, fruit trees, and ornamental plants; they frequently seek shelter inside houses and buildings during winter months.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous herbivore; feeds on a wide variety of plants including fruits (apples, peaches, berries), vegetables (peppers, tomatoes, corn), and ornamental trees.

Behavior Patterns

Known for emitting a pungent odor through scent glands when disturbed or crushed. In the fall, they aggregate in large numbers on south-facing walls and enter structures to undergo diapause (hibernation).

Risks & Benefits

No medical risk to humans as they do not bite or sting. However, they are a major agricultural pest causing significant damage to crops and are considered a severe nuisance pest when they invade homes in large numbers.