Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Natural Habitat

Originally from Asia, introduced to North America and Europe. Found in agricultural fields (orchards, row crops), urban and suburban areas, often seeking shelter in homes and other structures during cooler months.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous, feeding on a wide variety of plants, including fruits (apples, peaches, berries), vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, corn), field crops (soybeans), and ornamental plants. They feed by inserting their piercing-sucking mouthparts into fruits, seeds, and leaves, extracting plant juices.

Behavior Patterns

Known for emitting a strong, foul-smelling odor when disturbed or crushed. In late summer and fall, adults aggregate and seek overwintering sites, often entering homes and buildings through cracks and openings. They are not aggressive towards humans but can be a nuisance indoors. They are active during warmer months, laying eggs on the underside of leaves.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: A significant agricultural pest, causing considerable damage to crops, leading to economic losses. They are a major nuisance pest in homes, though they do not cause structural damage or pose a health risk. Benefits: None significant as an invasive species in non-native regions; they are considered a major pest.

Identified on: 10/7/2025