Say good riddance to stinkbugs by staying vigilant, taking action ASAP

Published: Thursday, March 13, 2014, 3:06p.m. Updated 5 hours ago

Batten down the hatches!

That's the best way to limit the number of stink bugs that invade households, according to local exterminators.

Be diligent, said Patty Daniels, owner of Daniels Pest Control of Connellsville since 1995. Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors, and repair damaged screens. Install screens on vents including bathroom, clothes dryer and stove vents.

Local exterminators concur that it's impossible to keep all stink bugs outside, although there are ways to reduce their numbers when they get inside, including traps.

The most effective are pheromone traps, which lure the insects with a stink bug-like scent, said Don Swaney, who has 34 years experience with Vermin Control Co. of Uniontown; The company has been in business since 1928.

Light traps also are somewhat effective, he said. Shaped like a funnel, the traps contain a bright LED light which attracts the bugs. They go in but can't get out.

Nix sticky traps

Sticky traps, used to catch many pests, have minimal success with stink bugs, said George Riggar, who has operated Safeway Pest Control in Uniontown since 1986. You only catch a few.

Swaney agreed.

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Say good riddance to stinkbugs by staying vigilant, taking action ASAP