The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) is a rising problem in Michigan. The invasive insect Halyomorpha halys, originating in Asia, has spread across North America. In Michigan, it appears in homes and harms crops, frustrating families and farmers.
Live in Lansing, Grand Rapids, or Kalamazoo? You may see these shield-shaped bugs on screens or slipping indoors in the fall. They do not bite or sting, but the smell and constant activity are annoying.
Experts at Michigan State University and the USDA study how BMSB damages vegetables, soybeans, and tree fruits. Homeowners also deal with ‘overwintering’ bugs that try to hide indoors for winter. Learn what draws them in and how to block them to get control.
Key Takeaways
- The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive species from Asia now established in Michigan.
- These bugs invade homes in the fall for overwintering, often gathering around window screens and attics.
- Farmers in Michigan report crop losses in soybeans, vegetable crops, and tree fruits due to stink bug feeding.
- Professional pest control services, such as those offered by Pest Pros of Michigan, can provide effective and lasting prevention strategies.
Identifying the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Michigan
You can spot the brown marmorated stink bug in Michigan with a few clues. Adults are about 5/8 inch long, shield-shaped, and mottled brown. Look for white bands on the antennae and light-dark stripes along the abdomen.
People often mix them up with native stink bugs. The banded antennae and striped edges distinguish BMSB. Nymphs are smaller and brighter, with red and black patterns, before they mature into adults and develop a brown coloration.
Resources like Bugwood and Michigan State University (MSU) extension pages provide identification photos to help residents confirm what they’re dealing with. Knowing the difference is important because this bug behaves differently and poses a greater threat to crops than native species.
Why the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Is a Problem
The brown marmorated stink bug ruins more than your mood. In Michigan, it feeds on soybeans, vegetables, tree fruits, and ornamentals. It pierces pods, fruits, and leaves, leaving blemishes and lowering crop quality.
For homeowners, the big issue is overwintering. When fall cools down, BMSB gathers on siding and near gaps, then slips inside through screens, doors, or vents. They will not hurt you, but they release a strong smell when disturbed.
Local farmers and residents near Lansing have reported large infestations in both fields and homes, underscoring the widespread nature of the challenge. The U.S. Department of Agriculture continues to track population growth and provide updates on regional risks.
Prevention Tips for Michigan Homes
To keep stink bugs out of Michigan homes, use sealing and exclusion: caulk window frames, siding, and other gaps. Repair window screens before fall, and follow proven steps for early fall stink bug prevention in Michigan. Check attics, soffits, vents, and chimneys for openings where BMSB can enter to overwinter.
Do not crush them indoors. Vacuum them and empty the bag outside. You can also drop them into a bucket of soapy water. For bigger problems, use an integrated pest management plan.
At Pest Pros of Michigan, we use proven exclusion techniques and targeted treatments to reduce stink bug entry. For Lansing and Grand Rapids homeowners, you can prepare your home for seasonal pest control to prevent a few nuisance bugs from escalating into a full-scale invasion.
Integrated Pest Management and Professional Help
Michigan State University and USDA researchers recommend integrated pest management (IPM) as the best long-term strategy for BMSB. IPM combines monitoring, exclusion, and selective use of safe products to reduce infestations without relying heavily on pesticides.
Entomologists note that outdoor insecticides may reduce numbers, but sealing and exclusion are more effective for homes. Farmers can add row covers, protect natural predators, and monitor crops often.
At Pest Pros of Michigan, we offer customized services for both residential and commercial properties. By focusing on entry points, seasonal timing, and safe treatment methods, we help homeowners across Kalamazoo, Lansing, and surrounding areas stay ahead of the problem.
Making the Right Choice for Your Michigan Home
The brown marmorated stink bug will remain a challenge in Michigan, but homeowners have options to stay ahead of it. Instead of waiting for fall swarms, a steady plan through the year keeps these pests from becoming overwhelming.
At Pest Pros of Michigan, we offer professional stink bug control tailored to Michigan’s climate and homes.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to schedule your service.
FAQs
What attracts brown marmorated stink bugs to homes?
Warmth and shelter attract BMSB in the fall. Cracks around windows, doors, siding, and attics make easy entry points in Michigan homes.
Do stink bugs cause structural damage?
No, stink bugs do not chew wood or damage structures. The primary concern is their odor, clustering, and overwintering habits within living spaces.
Can I control stink bugs on my own?
Yes, for small numbers. Vacuum them or drop them into soapy water. If they continue to return or you notice large clusters, consider hiring a professional for sealing and targeted treatments.
