Western Conifer Seed Bug

Natural Habitat

Coniferous forests, urban and suburban areas, often found on or near pine, fir, and spruce trees. They seek shelter in homes during colder months.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feeds on the developing seeds of conifers, but also occasionally on sap from twigs and needles. They use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract fluids.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are active from late spring to late fall. They are known for their strong flight and a distinct 'stink bug' odor when disturbed. In autumn, they aggregate and seek overwintering sites, often entering homes and other structures through cracks and openings. They are largely solitary during feeding.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include being a nuisance pest when they enter homes in large numbers, as their presence can be startling and they may emit an unpleasant odor if handled. They do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases to humans or pets. While they can cause some damage to conifer seeds, they are generally not considered a major agricultural pest.

Identified on: 9/18/2025