Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Scientific Name: Halyomorpha halys

Order & Family: Hemiptera, Pentatomidae

Size: 12-17 mm (0.5-0.7 inches) in length

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Natural Habitat

Originally from East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan), it has become an invasive species in North America and Europe. It is commonly found in agricultural fields, orchards, gardens, and urban/suburban environments. During cooler months, they often seek shelter in homes and other structures.

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.

Behavior Patterns

Known for emitting a foul odor when threatened or crushed. They are attracted to light and often aggregate in large numbers on the sides of buildings in the fall, seeking overwintering sites. They do not sting or bite humans.

Risks & Benefits

Primarily a pest. Risks include significant damage to agricultural crops, leading to economic losses for farmers. They are also a nuisance pest when they invade homes in large numbers in autumn. No known significant benefits to humans or the ecosystem, as they are an invasive species.

Identified on: 9/18/2025