The Shadow
COVINGTON, VA (VR) – People are talking a lot about the Stink bug these days, one of those small ordinary creatures that somehow manage to be the most irritating when you least expect it—especially in West Virginia.
As the weather shifts from warm days to cooler evenings, these bugs often find their way into homes, apartments, and garages. People notice them crawling along windowsills, gathering on siding, and then—most memorably letting off a sharp odor when disturbed. That “stink” is the bug’s defense mechanism, and it can make even a brief encounter feel unpleasant.
In West Virginia, stink bugs are common during late summer and fall. They’re attracted to light and warmth, so doors left cracked open and well-lit windows can turn into an invitation. Inside, they may move slowly but persistently, tapping their antennae and searching for more comfortable spots. Most are not dangerous to humans, but the smell they release can cling to curtains, walls, and clothing if a person crushes one.
Beyond being annoying indoors, stink bugs can also be a problem outdoors. They may feed on gardens, fruit trees, and field crops, leaving damaged plants or blemished produce. That’s part of why gardeners consider them a nuisance: they show up when you’re trying to enjoy the season’s harvest.
The good news is that stink bugs can be managed.
Sealing cracks around windows and doors helps keep them out. Using screens, reducing exterior lighting near entrances, and cleaning up debris around foundations can lower the chances of them taking up residence. If one gets inside, gentle removal such as using a container and paper to relocate it—can prevent the unpleasant odor that comes from squishing.
Stink bugs may be unavoidable at times, but with a few practical steps, you can keep their presence and their attitude under control. After late-season peaks in fall, they usually start to die down as sustained cold arrives, though you may still see occasional stragglers into November; then they hunker down over winter and typically reappear again in early to mid-spring.
Just remember, when it turns chilly, the stink bugs pack up so you’re not stuck with them much longer.
