Kudzu Bug

Agricultural fields, residential gardens, and areas dense with kudzu vines; often hibernates on white or light-colored surfaces/walls.

Herbivorous; primarily feeds on the sap of legumes, especially kudzu vines and soybeans.

They are highly gregarious (forming large clusters), strong fliers, and enter a state of diapause during winter, often congregating on the sunny sides of buildings to seek warmth.

Risks: Major agricultural pest for soybeans; can cause skin irritation/blistering if crushed against skin and produces a foul odor. Benefits: Helps control the growth of invasive kudzu vines.