Anchor Pest Control Team

Known for the foul smell they emit when squished, stink bugs are easily identified by their unique shield-like bodies and spiky appearance.

Stink bugs are some of the most common household pests found in homes across the U.S. and some of the least desirable to any home.

While stink bugs are harmless to humans and don’t tend to cause any property damage, these pests can still become a nuisance when they invade homes in large numbers and release their unpleasant odor. Knowing what attracts these insects to your home in the first place is essential for getting rid of stink bugs and keeping them away for good.

How to Identify a Stink Bug Infestation

The most common stink bug in the northeast is the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, known for its light brown exterior shells, antennae, and acrid scent.

Usually, the presence of a strong, unexplainable smell in your home will be a telltale sign that stink bugs have made their presence known. Stink bugs are said to smell like strong herbs and spices such as cilantro or coriander, and the smell will typically be stronger if there is a larger infestation in your home.

Additionally, spotting live or dead stink bugs around the house can be another sign that you may be dealing with a stink bug infestation. If you notice more than one stink bug in your home, it may be wise to contact an exterminator to have your home inspected and treated for stink bugs.

Essentials that Attract Stink Bugs to Your Home

Warmth

The most common reason stink bugs enter residential homes is in search of warmth. These insects require a warm environment in order to stay alive and active during the winter months, and the more warm and inviting your home is, the more likely they are to want to move in.

Food

Stink bugs love to feed on fruits and vegetables, particularly tomatoes, apples, and stone fruits. If you don’t properly seal your kitchen trash can or leave fruits and vegetables out on the counter, stink bugs will be able to smell the food and are more likely to be attracted to your home.

Light

Stink bugs are attracted to light, which is why you may notice them congregating around lamps or outdoor lighting. Stink bugs are most attracted to bright lights, so switching out your light bulbs to a more yellow-colored light may be effective in getting rid of these pests. It can also be helpful to turn off any outdoor lighting at night, as being in the dark may confuse them and draw them away from your home altogether.

When Do Stink Bugs Commonly Invade Homes?

Stink bugs are most active from March through September, so you may notice more of these insects than usual during these months. However, this timespan can vary depending on the weather each month, as stink bugs’ main motive when entering a home is to find shelter from the cold. When it comes to the time of day stink bugs are most active, you can expect to see them most often during the day or near lamps or outdoor lighting at night.

Stink Bug Prevention Tips

The best way to eliminate stink bugs is to prevent them in the first place.

There are several things you can do to prevent stink bugs from making their way into your home, including:

• Checking for broken screens on windows and doors and making the necessary repairs
• Sealing possible entryways
• Changing your outdoor lightbulbs to yellow, as stink bugs are less attracted to this color light
• Turning off exterior lighting at night
• Carefully inspecting laundry that was hung outside before bringing it indoors

Otherwise, you will need to contact a stink bug exterminator or experiment with homemade stink bug repellents to eliminate a large infestation.

FAQs

Can stink bugs bite or harm humans?

Stink bugs are not aggressive towards humans and cannot bite, as their mouths do not allow them to pierce through skin. Although they do produce a foul odor when they are squished, this scent is typically harmless and may only cause mild irritation to people who are particularly sensitive to smells.

Are stink bugs attracted to certain colors?

Stink bugs are known to be particularly attracted to the color white, which is why you may notice these insects latched onto your light-colored bed sheets or bath towels.

How do stink bugs get into homes?

There are several ways stink bugs make their way into homes, either by hitching a ride on laundry that has been hung up on the clothesline outside or through broken screens or cracks in your home. Once stink bugs enter a home, they will give off pheromones that attract other stink bugs, which is why you may notice several in your home at one time.

What are the health risks associated with stink bugs?

As mentioned earlier, there are no known health risks associated with stink bugs, as their mouths do not enable them to pierce through human skin. They are also not harmful to pets, so you won’t have to worry if your furry friend comes in contact with a stink bug.

Do stink bugs damage furniture and clothing?

Stink bugs typically will not cause damage to the structure of a home or anything within a home. When squished, they may release droppings that can leave tiny stains on furniture or clothing, but these stains can usually be removed in a standard wash cycle.

Out of all of the common household pests, cockroaches are some of the most feared. Each year, millions of homeowners discover cockroach infestations, and once these pests make their way into your home, it can feel almost impossible to get rid of them.

Knowing how and why cockroaches enter residential homes in the first place is the first step to preventing these dreaded pests from moving into your space. Here are seven easy tips to keep cockroaches away for good, as well as some telltale signs to look out for.

Why Cockroaches Enter Your Home

Cockroaches most often enter residential properties in search of food and water, so they are more likely to be drawn to your home if you provide these resources for them. Unsealed trash bags, dirty dishes in the sink, and leaky faucets can all attract cockroaches to your home. Additionally, these pests are also known to enjoy feasting on pet food that is either left out in a bowl on the floor or not stored properly, so be sure to keep an eye on your furry friend’s food and seal any bags of kibble when not in use.

Signs of Cockroaches

Cockroaches can be sneaky, which is why many homeowners don’t realize they have an infestation until it’s already gotten out of control. However, knowing the signs to look for can help you recognize a cockroach infestation and get the problem under control promptly. Some telltale signs of a cockroach infestation include:

• Cockroach droppings
• Foul, musty odors
• Cockroach eggs
• Smar marks on walls and surfaces
• Chew marks on household items and appliances
• Live or dead cockroach sightings
• New allergy symptoms

7 Tips to Keep Cockroaches Away

1. Seal All Entry Points

Cockroaches are known to be able to squeeze through even the smallest cracks and crevices, so be sure to seal any possible entry points to keep these pests out. You can do this using a store-bought caulk or sealant and applying it to any cracks in the walls and floors of your home.

2. Keep a Clean Home

One of the best ways to combat any pest infestation is to keep a clean home, especially when it comes to cockroaches. These pests thrive in dirty or damp conditions, so tidying up as much as possible will prevent cockroaches from wanting to stick around. Getting into a regular cleaning routine of washing your floors, not leaving dirty dishes in the sink, and clearing any clutter off of your floors is a great way to prevent cockroaches.

3. Keep a Clean Yard

Overgrown grass and poor landscaping outside of your home can create the perfect breeding group for cockroaches and can eventually lead them indoors, so staying on top of your lawn care can be an effective way to prevent these pests. During the summer months, be sure to regularly mow your lawn and pick up any weeds and overgrown vegetation around your home.

4. Eliminate All Standing Water and Leaks

Cockroaches are particularly attracted to damp areas, so having any leaking faucets or standing water in or around your home could draw these pests in. Be sure to inspect your home for any leaking or standing water, and take care of these issues for your best chance at keeping cockroaches away.

5. Plant Strategic Herbs

There are several plants and herbs cockroaches are known to hate, and planting them in your garden or keeping potted plants in your house can effectively ward off cockroaches. Catnip, lavender, citronella, and mint are all known to deter cockroaches, so consider planting these herbs if you are dealing with a cockroach problem.

6. Apply an Organic Insecticide

Applying an organic insecticide in or around your home can also be effective in getting rid of cockroaches. There are many different options available to homeowners, from diatomaceous earth to neem oil. When choosing which insecticide to use, be sure to carefully read the instructions to ensure you are applying the solution safely and effectively.

7. Enlist In a Local Pest Prevention Program

When dealing with a serious pest infestation such as cockroaches, your best bet is to contact a pest control expert at the first sign of trouble. Cockroaches are notoriously difficult to get rid of, and you could end up making the problem worse if you try to tackle it on your own. A local and trusted pest control professional will be able to inspect your home to determine the severity of the infestation and create a unique treatment plan to get rid of these pests once and for all.

FAQs

What are the health risks of cockroach infestations?

There are several different health risks associated with cockroach infestations, with the most prominent being allergies. Cockroaches can be an allergen trigger for many people and can even cause asthma attacks for some. Additionally, cockroaches are dirty insects that carry bacteria that can be harmful to humans.

Can cockroaches infest clean homes?

Contrary to popular belief, cockroaches can infest clean homes, too. There are many ways cockroaches can make their way into a home, from squeezing through tiny cracks in the walls to hitching a ride on cardboard boxes and packages. The best thing homeowners can do is create an environment that would prevent cockroaches from wanting to stick around, so keeping a clean house and eliminating any possible food sources is imperative.

What is the best method to kill roaches instantly?

When it comes to getting rid of cockroaches for good, your best bet is to enlist the help of a pest control professional. However, there are things you can do in the short term to instantly kill any roaches you may see around your home. There are several store-bought chemicals that can be sprayed directly onto cockroaches to kill them, as well as DIY methods, like dousing a cockroach in a combination of dish soap and water.

With the changing of each season comes a slew of new household pests for many NJ, PA, and NY homeowners.

While some household pests are typically seen as more benign, such as ladybugs, others can quickly become a nightmare if not dealt with promptly.

Understanding the most common bugs present during each season is key when it comes to knowing how to prepare and deal with an infestation.

Here are some of the most common pests throughout the year and tips to prevent them from invading your property.

Seasonal Pests: Understanding Pest Life Cycles

When it comes to the life cycles of a pest’s life, most go through four main stages:

1. Egg
2. Larva
3. Pupa
4. Adult

The length of each stage can vary from pest to pest, as well as other factors like humidity, the weather outside, and access to food and water.

In many cases, insects will lay their eggs during the fall and hatch in the spring.

Therefore, identifying where and when pests lay their eggs will give you better odds to squash them before they multiply.

For this reason, we want to provide a broad overview of the most common insects that enter homes during every season.

Common Bugs of Spring

• Mosquitoes: Typically active in May or June but can appear as early as February in some places
• Ladybugs: Most active between spring and fall. During the colder months, they tend to retreat indoors or seek shelter underneath rocks or in rotting logs.
• Ticks: Typically start to appear from March to May but can be active any time the temperature is above freezing.
• Spiders: Although spiders can live year-round, they are typically most active in late Spring. [Learn more: Common Spiders in New Jersey]

Common Bugs of Summer

• Bees: While bees start to become active in spring, they are most commonly seen during the summer months
• Ants: Ants multiply during the warm summer months and commonly enter homes at the first scent of any sweet or greasy. It’s very common to see a colony of black ants in your house if you do not take steps to control them effectively.
• Fruit Flies: Attracted to ripe or rotting food, fruit flies are most active during the late summer months.
• Pincher Bugs: Pesky earwigs are active during spring and summer, though they tend to be nocturnal and rarely make their way into homes.
• Termites: Most active during the warmer months, termites often make themselves known on a warm summer day after rainfall.

Common Bugs of Fall

• Stink Bugs: Most active in early fall when the weather is still relatively warm, stink bugs can invade any part of your home.
• Cockroaches: If you notice cockroaches or waterbugs in your house during the fall and winter months, it is because these pests are in search of warmth, shelter, and food.
• Beetles: Often mistaken for cockroaches, beetles are most active during the fall in preparation for hibernation. They tend to migrate to any room with warmth and food.

Common Bugs of Winter

• Box Elders: Commonly seen on cold winter days, Box Elders typically hide out in basements where it is warm.
• Bed Bugs: These critters seek warmth by making their way inside homes, though they are usually transmitted via second-hand furniture and clothing.

General Pest Prevention Tips

Luckily, most preventative pest control methods will work for pests year-round.

• Keep a clean house
• Carefully inspect packages before bringing them into your home
• Be wary of used items from thrift stores
• Practice proper food storage
• Fix leaky faucets and plumbing
• Maintain the landscaping outside your house
• Seal any cracks and crevices in your home
• Repair broken screens on windows and doors
• Get rid of standing water inside and outside your home

The Importance of All-Season Pest Control

With that said, not all pest prevention tips will be 100% effective.

For example, it can be difficult to keep bees and mosquitos out of your yard, especially if you have a thriving garden or even a bird bath in your backyard.

Similarly, beetles and elder bugs can easily make their way into your home even without a plentiful food source simply because your home has warmth.

Therefore, all-season pest control is imperative to ensuring that pests stay far away from your home throughout the year.

An all-season pest control approach is tailored to the habits and life cycles of the pests most common in your area and targets the pests that are most likely to show up during each season of the year.

Work with your local exterminator to create an all-season pest control plan that repels most forms of pests and insects.

Anchor Pest Control’s Pest Protect 365 offers year-round protection against over 40 species of pests. Contact one of our customer representatives for more information.

FAQs

Can I use the same pest control methods throughout the year?

There are some general best practices we recommend for every pest. However, the pest control method you use should be tailored to the specific pest you are targeting. Even different baits and traps will be designed for different pests.

Can year-round pest control methods help with allergies?

Certain types of pests can trigger allergies for many people, so utilizing year-round pest control can be helpful in keeping those allergens at bay. Be sure to consult with a pest control professional if you are experiencing any unusual allergy-like symptoms, as this may indicate a pest infestation.

Are there natural ways to control pests during all seasons?

There are many ways to reduce the chances of unwelcome pests entering your home throughout the year, from keeping a clean house to repairing any broken screens on your windows or doors. Other natural remedies, such as planting certain herbs in your garden or diffusing essential oils, may also be effective in keeping pests away year-round.

With the colder weather setting in, rodents can become a big problem for many homeowners.

Rodent season begins from late August to October, with mice being the most common rodent to infest homes.

Knowing how to prevent mice from entering your home is key when it comes to protecting you and your loved ones from these unexpected pests this winter.

Here are some of the best mouse prevention tips and a few of the most frequently asked rodent questions.

When Are Mice Most Active?

Mice are nocturnal and typically only search for food or water after dusk to avoid detection. Because of this, a mouse infestation can go unnoticed for a long time, unless you know what signs to look out for.

Additionally, mice are most active during the fall and winter months when temperatures are cooler, and they take refuge in your home.

Signs of a Mouse Presence

Mice may be sneaky creatures, but they can also be loud and belligerent without even realizing it. Here are several telltale signs of a mouse infestation to be aware of:

• Noises coming from inside the walls and underneath the floorboards
• Rodent droppings
• Gnaw marks on food packaging
• Burrows or holes
• Rodent tracks
• Discarded nesting materials, such as paper or plant matter
• Live or dead rodent sightings

Types of Rodents and Their Impact

There are several different animals in the rodent family, including mice, rats, and squirrels. Mice and rats are known to carry a number of diseases that are dangerous to humans and can transmit them through either direct contact or from urine or feces droppings.

Mice are the most common rodent in New Jersey, typically entering homes through small cracks near your basement. Rats are known to infest houses, though they tend to come up through sewers and dirt floorboards.

Squirrels can also enter homes, though this is usually only possible if you have a huge hole in the exterior of your house.

Nevertheless, all three rodents can wreak havoc on your house, chewing through wiring and other materials behind your walls. For this reason, you should take the same precautions to prevent all rodents from entering your home.

7 Tips to Prevent Mice From Entering Your Home

1. Clean Up Trash and Clutter

Keeping a clean home is one of the most important ways to prevent pests of all kinds from invading your space, especially mice. Regularly taking out the trash and disposing of garbage bags in sealed containers away from the house is a big way to prevent mice from entering your home, as they are less likely to show up if you don’t have anything to offer them.

2. Clean Up Your Yard

Overgrown grass and weeds create the perfect hiding places for rodents, so maintaining your property is imperative to keeping mice at bay.

3. Seal Cracks and Entrances

Sealing cracks and crevices in your home is essential to keep rodents from invading your space. This can be done using an inexpensive store-bought caulk and applying it to any cracks and possible rodent entrances in your home.

4. Eliminate Food Sources

Eliminating food sources is an important way to prevent mice from entering your home, as they are typically searching for food and water. This means regularly sweeping your floors, cleaning up after every meal, and properly storing your food in airtight containers.

5. Adopt a Cat

Cats are natural rodent predators, so adopting a cat can work in your favor if you believe you may have a rodent infestation. People who live in urban areas or apartment buildings may also benefit from adopting a pet cat, as rodents are typically more prevalent in these areas.

6. Set Our Traps and Baits

If you believe you may be dealing with a mouse infestation, setting out baits and traps can be a good idea. There are several different types of traps available, from traditional snap traps to more humane traps. Bait stations can also effectively eliminate a rodent infestation, but be sure to carefully read the instructions to ensure they are set up properly and kept away from any pets or small children.

7. Call a Professional Exterminator

When in doubt, it is always best to seek the help of a pest control professional to handle any type of infestation. An experienced rodent control specialist will inspect your home to determine what kind of rodent you are dealing with and make targeted recommendations to take care of the problem quickly and effectively.

FAQs

Can mice infestations cause health problems?

While mice are not typically aggressive toward humans, their danger lies in the multitude of diseases they carry. Some of the most commonly transmitted diseases from mice to humans include plague, salmonella, hantavirus, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus.

What are the most common entry points for mice in a home?

Some of the most common entry points for mice include fireplaces, attics, dryer vents, and underneath doors. Once inside, mice will typically hide underneath kitchen cabinets, behind refrigerators, and behind stoves.

Do mice have a preference for certain types of food?

Mice are most attracted to sweet and fatty foods like fruits and berries, chocolate, bacon, butter, and lard. Because of this, it is imperative that you practice proper food storage and ensure that your food is properly sealed and put away to prevent rodents from sniffing it out.

Ticks are arguably some of the most dangerous bugs in New Jersey. While you may be used to your dog bringing home ticks occasionally, ticks can be incredibly damaging to human health.

Not only are ticks notorious progenitors of Lyme Disease, but some strains of Lone Star Ticks have even started carrying a special molecule that makes people allergic to red meat.

That’s why we’ve outlined nine essential tips for keeping your yard tick-free to keep you and your family’s health safe.

Why Are Ticks in My Yard?

Ticks are parasites that travel from place to place by latching themselves onto other animals. These animals include deer, squirrels, raccoons, foxes, and other types of rodents. Therefore, keeping your yard free of these critters will go a long way in keeping your yard tick-free.

Furthermore, ticks are also attracted to shade and moisture grass, so they will typically hide amidst tall grass or low-hanging shrubs. So, even if you cut your grass, you must still be wary about bringing your pet near any backyard bushes.

What Diseases Do Ticks Carry?

Ticks can carry several diseases, with the most common being Lyme disease. Each year, approximately 476,000 Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease, according to the CDC. In addition to Lyme disease, ticks can also carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and tularemia, all of which cause symptoms that are hard to diagnose.

The most common types of ticks in New Jersey include the Deer Tick and the American Dog Tick.

9 Ways to Prevent Ticks in Your Yard

1. Maintain Landscaping

One of the best ways to prevent ticks from hanging around your yard is to maintain your landscaping. This includes regularly mowing your grass to a short length and trimming any overgrown bushes or shrubbery in your yard. Clean up any loose brush or debris that may be housing ticks or other pests, such as cockroaches.

2. Apply Mulch

Adding a protective mulch barrier around your yard can prevent ticks, as ticks will not cross a mulch border. While ticks may still enter your yard by hitching a ride on animals or people, applying a strip of mulch at least a couple of feet wide can significantly reduce the amount of ticks you see around your property.

3. Avoid Shaded and Wooded Areas

Ticks prefer to hide in shaded and wooded areas, so avoiding spending too much time in these places can reduce your chances of being bitten. When going into a wooded area, take necessary precautions, such as wearing long clothing that covers your skin and boots that go past your ankles.

4. Repel Deer from Your Yard

As cute as they are, deer are some of the biggest culprits for unknowingly giving ticks a ride into your yard. There are several all-natural methods you could use to repel deer from your yard without hurting them, such as planting strong-smelling herbs like lavender, rosemary, and garlic outside your home.

5. Use Tick Tubes

Tick tubes are DIY contraptions designed to kill ticks that travel on mice. The tubes resemble nesting material used by mice, which attract the tick-covered mice to their habitat and kill any ticks using a special pesticide. That pesticide is known as permethrin, and it’s soaked in cotton, which is placed inside the cardboard tubes to kill any ticks that enter.

6. Apply an Insecticide

There are a ton of different insecticides available to kill ticks, with permethrin (the chemical used in tick tubes) being one of the most effective. Other store brands of insecticides include Ortho, Hot Shot, and Spectracide, though it is imperative that you carefully follow the directions when applying any of these chemicals to ensure you are doing it properly and avoid poisoning yourself or your pets.

7. Grow Plants with Strong Scents

Several plants are known to deter ticks with their strong scent, including lavender, rosemary, sweet basil, and garlic. In addition to repelling ticks from your property, you’ll also have a nice backyard herb garden!

8. Inspect for Ticks Regularly

Inspecting yourself, your loved ones, and your pets for ticks after spending time outdoors is imperative for preventing the many diseases these pests carry. This is especially important if you have just come in from a hike through the woods or after walking through high grass, as ticks are more prevalent in these areas.

9. Hire an Exterminator

When in doubt, it is always best to hire a professional exterminator to handle a tick problem. A trusted pest control professional will be able to assess your property for ticks and determine the specific course of treatment needed to eliminate the problem.

Read more for additional tips on how to get rid of ticks on your property.

How to Protect Your Pets from Ticks

Ticks are not always avoidable, but there are several ways you and your pet can protect yourself from contact with any ticks.

• Keep your pet groomed and bathe them regularly. This will help you spot any ticks that may be hiding in your pet’s coat.
• Ask your vet about the best flea and tick collar for your pet. Conduct some research, as these collars do contain chemicals that may or may not be harmful to pets.
• Inspect your pet for ticks anytime they come in from spending time outdoors in wooded or forested areas where ticks hide.
• Educate yourself on how to remove ticks properly. Tick removal tools are incredibly cheap and available at most drug stores and pet stores.

Luckily, maintaining a tick-free yard will also help you combat other pests.

For year-round tick prevention, check out Anchor Pests’ Pest Protect 365 Program or contact us for further information.

FAQs: Tick Yard Prevention

How do ticks enter my yard in the first place?

Ticks will typically enter a backyard on the backs of other animals, such as deer or rodents. Once they arrive, they will establish themselves, typically in a dark and damp habitat. Ticks can often hide in tall grass and moist dirt, where they can hide and protect themselves.

Can ticks survive in all types of weather?

While the ideal weather for ticks is warm with high humidity, these pests are extremely resilient and can thrive in just about any weather. However, ticks are typically less active during the colder months, so you may not notice as many of them from October through March.

What should I do if I find a tick on my pet?

If you find a tick on your pet, you should try to remove it if possible. To remove a tick, part your pet’s fur until you see the tick burrowed into its skin. Using clean tweezers, grab the tick as close to your pet’s skin as possible and pull it straight upward. After the tick is removed, check the area to make sure the entire tick was removed, and bathe your pet with a flea and tick shampoo.

How often should I mow my lawn to prevent ticks?

A good rule of thumb is to mow your lawn about once a week to keep your grass neatly trimmed and to avoid creating an ideal environment for ticks. This is especially important during the summer months when ticks are most active.

When it comes to common summertime insects, yellow jackets are some of the most feared and considered one of the most dangerous bugs in New Jersey. While these insects are extremely beneficial to our environment and work to pollinate flowers and feed on insects that would otherwise damage our gardens, yellow jackets are also known to become aggressive when provoked, even stinging multiple times.

While keeping yellow jackets away from your property is no easy feat, there are measures you can take to prevent them from hanging around your yard and interfering with your summer plans.

Identifying Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets in New Jersey are black with distinct yellow markings on their head and abdomen, giving them the eponymous name of “yellow jacket.” These stinging insects can also be identified by their segmented body and thin waist, as well as their hairlessness compared to other types of bees. Typically, yellow jackets grow to about ½ to 1 inch long, so they tend to be on the smaller side compared to the similar-looking hornet.

The Risks of Yellow Jacket Encounters

Encountering a yellow jacket is no joke and can become even more serious if encountered in large numbers.

Yellow jackets are known to sting multiple times when provoked, and their venom can even cause allergic reactions in some people.

If you encounter a yellow jacket, try to walk away in a straight line, as moving around or swatting can draw more attention to yourself and may provoke these stinging insects to attack.

Common Yellow Jacket Attractants

Yellow jackets are particularly attracted to the smell of meat, which is why you may spot these flying insects hanging around backyard barbecues during the summer months.

When it comes to choosing yellow jacket bait, many people opt for canned white chicken meat, but other protein-based foods should also do the trick. Yellow jackets are also drawn to sweet substances such as juice and soft drinks, so be sure to check any open cans of soda left outside during the summertime!

Creating a Yellow Jacket-Free Environment

Eliminating Attractants and Food Sources

One of the biggest ways to create a yellow jacket-free environment is to eliminate all possible attractants and food sources. While coming into contact with a yellow jacket may sometimes be unavoidable, such as hosting a summer cookout, being proactive in ensuring food or drinks don’t sit out for an extended period is crucial in preventing yellow jackets from overstaying their welcome.

Proper Waste Management and Garbage Disposal

Properly disposing of garbage is another key way to keep yellow jackets away from your property.

Since garbage is one of the biggest attractants for yellow jackets, you will want to ensure you keep your garbage bags tied and the cans sealed to prevent these stinging insects from making themselves at home.

Planting Yellow Jacket-Repellent Herbs

Herbs like rosemary, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, and geranium are all known to keep yellow jackets at bay, so try planting these herbs around your home and garden if you are experiencing a large yellow jacket presence.

Essential Oils and Natural Sprays

Applying the scents from these herbs in essential oil form can also help keep these insects away. Adding a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle combined with water and spraying it outside of your home can effectively prevent them from lingering around your property.

Building DIY Yellow Jacket Traps

Whether you’re on a budget or would simply prefer to try a DIY method, building your own yellow jacket trap can also be effective. A common DIY yellow jacket trap involves using an empty 2-liter soda bottle and adding sugar, water, apple cider vinegar, and a banana peel before shaking the mixture up.

Using a utility knife, cut a small opening in the bottle to give the yellow jackets room to enter. Next, simply place the trap near the hive and wait for the yellow jackets to enter and get caught.

Professional Yellow Jacket Removal

When it comes to getting rid of a yellow jacket infestation, Integrated Pest Management, or IPM, is one of the most effective methods. IPM is an ecosystem-based method for natural pest control that involves biological control, habitat manipulation, and a combination of both chemical and non-chemical practices. IPM has proven to be highly effective in eliminating pests of all kinds, including yellow jackets.

Most pest control professionals use a combination of IPM and organic insecticides to remove them from your property.

We should also note that yellow jacket removal can be a tough job and should be left to a pest control professional, as you could be putting yourself at risk of getting stung or the infestation returning if you try to take matters into your own hands.

FAQs

How can I differentiate yellow jackets from bees and other wasps?

While yellow jackets can be easily mistaken for other types of bees and wasps, there are some key differences to be aware of. Most notably, they have a distinct appearance that can help you identify them, such as their bold black and yellow coloring and their, segmented bodies and thin waist. Yellow jackets are also hairless, while some other types of bees have hair on their bodies. They are also smaller but thicker than wasps, which is important to note when differentiating the two.

What are some common attractants for yellow jackets?

Yellow jackets are most attracted to meat and other protein-based foods, such as grilled chicken, steak, and hamburgers. They are also drawn to sweet and sugary substances, like soda and fruit juices, as well as tree sap.

When should I seek professional help for yellow jacket removal?

If you discover a yellow jacket infestation near your property, you must act fast. Yellow jackets can be difficult to get rid of and can form multiple nests across your property. You will also increase the risk of being stung if you attempt to deal with the problem yourself. Seeking the help of a pest control professional is the best way to ensure that an infestation is taken care of quickly and safely.

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Out of all of the common pests found in homes across the United States, stink bugs are some of the most annoying. Most Jersey residents are familiar with the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, which loves to hide out over winter inside your house.

While stink bugs are relatively harmless to humans and pets, the foul odor they release when scared or killed can have many homeowners holding their noses and running out of the room.

Stink bugs are also known to invade in large numbers, making them particularly bothersome during the warmer months when they are the most active. If you find yourself dealing with these unwelcomed household pests, here are 7 DIY tips for getting rid of stink bugs once and for all.

Identifying Stink Bugs

Stink bugs can easily be identified by their unique shape and the distinct, foul odor they release when crushed.

Stink bugs have shield-shaped bodies and are typically brown in color, often bearing a speckled pattern. They also have smooth, rounded shoulders and light and dark brown bands on their antennae. These insects can reach nearly 2 centimeters in length, making them almost as wide as long.

You may also notice that stink bugs will often stand still for long periods of time, giving the impression that they are dead. This is a state known as diapause, which occurs when they cannot find a food source.

Though stink bugs typically come out during summer, they can also survive the winter. Therefore, understanding how to get rid of stink bugs is important for year-round protection.

7 Tips to Get Rid of Stink Bugs

1. Homemade Stink Bug Traps

There are several homemade stink bug traps that can effectively eliminate these pests, with one of the most popular being the foil pan method. To try this method, simply fill a foil roasting pan with water and dish soap and shine a small desk lamp onto it. The light will draw the stink bugs to the trap, and once they enter, they will not be able to escape.

2. Natural Stink Bug Repellents

Stink bugs are known to dislike certain natural smells, many of which could be found in essential oil form. Essential oils like spearmint, lemongrass, and ylang-ylang have been shown to keep stink bugs away, so diffusing these oils around your home or mixing them with water in a spray bottle can effectively ward off these pests.

3. Eliminate Food Sources

Stink bugs are attracted to moisture and food scraps, so eliminating these possible food sources from your home can help keep stink bugs at bay. One of the biggest ways to do this is by storing food in airtight containers and disposing of garbage promptly. It may also be a good idea to purchase an airtight garbage can, as stink bugs will be less likely to smell your garbage when it is properly stored.

4. Reduce Moisture

As mentioned earlier, stink bugs are drawn to moisture, so be sure to watch for any leaky faucets or pipes in your home. You should also avoid having a lot of dirty dishes in the sink, and be sure to drain the water from your sink or bathtub immediately after use to prevent stink bugs from hanging around.

5. Seal Cracks

Stink bugs can make their way into your home through cracks and crevices in your walls, so it may be a good idea to inspect your walls, windows, and doorways for any possible entryways. Using caulk to seal any cracks found in your home can be extremely effective in preventing these pests from invading your space.

6. Insecticidal Soaps and Oils

Many people look to insecticides and oils to keep stink bugs at bay. Neem oil for stink bugs is a popular option, as it is a more natural solution and kills stink bugs by interfering with their behavior. When stink bugs ingest neem oil, they are tricked into feeling that they are no longer hungry and will eventually die. Other stronger insecticides are also commonly used, but it is important to note that these harsh chemicals should only be applied by a pest control professional to ensure the problem is handled safely and effectively.

7. Landscape

Keeping the outside of your home neat and well-landscaped is important for keeping all kinds of pests out of the house, including stink bugs. During the summer months, regularly cut the grass and pull any stray weeds for the best chance of protecting your home from intruders. If there are trees near your house, trimming the branches and cleaning out your gutters can also effectively reduce your chances of seeing stink bugs in your home.

Should I Squish Stink Bugs?

If you see a stink bug in your home, do not crush it. Doing so will release the foul odor activated when the insects are frightened or killed, and the smell could be overpowering. Instead, opt for one of the methods mentioned above to safely kill stink bugs without subjecting you and your loved ones to this pest’s offensive odor.

While DIY home pest control is effective against stink bugs on most occasions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified stink bug exterminator for help.

FAQs

Can stink bugs harm humans or pets?

While stink bugs may look intimidating, these insects are generally harmless to humans and pets. Besides their offensive odor, most species of stink bugs cannot bite or sting and are not poisonous if your cat or dog accidentally ingests one.

How can stink bugs damage crops and gardens?

Stink bugs can be extremely damaging to crops and gardens, as these pests are known to pierce through plant leaves, buds, and fruit and suck the sap or juice from them. This can stunt plant growth and create holes in fruits and vegetables, sometimes even killing seedlings, depending on how much damage was done.

Can stink bugs trigger asthma or allergies?

Stink bugs have been known to trigger asthma or allergies in individuals sensitive to the bugs’ odor. This reaction can be similar to that of a cockroach or beetle allergy, so it is important to take care of a stink bug infestation before it gets out of control.

What are some natural predators of stink bugs?

Some of the most common natural predators of stink bugs include spiders, bats, birds, and assassin bugs. Predatory stink bugs are also known to feed on their less harmful counterparts, the plant-feeding stink bugs.

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There are many reasons to love the summer months, from the warm weather and longer days to the general carefree feeling in the air. However, one of the more unpleasant parts of summertime is the resurgence of bugs like mosquitos and stinging insects. 

While most stinging insects play an important role in our ecosystem, it doesn’t change the fact that many of us go running in the opposite direction at the first sight of a wasp. Insect sting allergies are also fairly common, with 5% to 7.5% of Americans having a hypersensitivity to these pests’ venom. 

Therefore, knowing how to identify each common stinging insect is essential for protecting yourself and your loved ones this summer. Learn about the different stinging insects you may encounter and how to avoid getting stung. 

Honey Bees

Honey bees can be identified by their thick, oval-shaped bodies with dark brown hair and yellow stripes. Honey bees are extremely important to the environment and pollinate $15 billion worth of crops in the United States each year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Honey bees prefer to reside in natural environments such as gardens, orchards, and meadows, and these bees are typically regarded as very docile insects that will only sting when provoked. 

Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees resemble large bumblebees and have round bodies with smooth, black abdomens. They are similar to honey bees in temperament and their ability to pollinate, but they can cause a lot of damage to wooden structures by boring into wood to create their nests. Carpenter bees prefer to nest in unpainted, weathered wood and are especially drawn to softer woods like pine and cedar. 

Wasps

Wasps are typically thin, hairless insects with three distinct body parts: a head, a thorax, and an abdomen. Wasps consist of a large category of stinging insects, including hornets, yellow jackets, and paper wasps. These critters will become aggressive with humans if they feel that their nest is being threatened or their food supply is low, which is why your best bet is to avoid the area surrounding a wasp nest to avoid getting stung. Wasp nests built above ground can typically be found in bushes, trees, or attics. 

Hornets

Hornets have reddish-brown heads and thoraxes and can be identified by their thin waists. Unlike the previous insects mentioned, hornets are known to be aggressive and can swarm in large numbers when provoked. Hornets prefer to nest on the branches of trees and shrubs but tend to spend the winter months nesting in the crevices of home siding and rotten logs.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are black in color with distinct yellow markings on their head and abdomen. Yellow jackets are among the most aggressive stinging insects, and they are known to target honey bee hives and eat their bees and larvae. These insects can also sting multiple times, making them one type of pest you don’t want to mess with. Yellow jackets prefer to nest on the forest floor, as well as on rock walls and sometimes inside structures. 

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers are lesser-known wasps that travel solo to build mud nests consisting of tubes on an exposed surface. Unlike other types of wasps, mud daubers are not easily agitated and are not known to sting, even when provoked. Mud daubers are thin and black in color and have what is known as a “thread waist,” referring to the long, skinny segment between the thorax and abdomen. 

Tips to Prevent Getting Stung

Not all stinging insects are aggressive, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take proper precautions. 

• Wear Long Clothing – One of the best ways to protect yourself from getting stung by a stinging insect is to wear long clothing when spending time outdoors. This is especially important if you plan on spending an extended period of time doing outdoor activities like gardening or hiking. Be sure to tuck your pants into your boots, keep your sleeves pulled down, and wear gloves while gardening for the best chance of protecting yourself.
• Avoid Perfumes – Perfumes and strongly-scented body products can attract stinging insects, so it is best to avoid using these products if you’re planning to spend time outdoors. In addition to perfumes, insects may also be attracted to scented body lotions, shampoos, and even flavored lip glosses, so it may be in your best interest to skip the fragranced products and opt for unscented ones.
• Bathe Daily – Insects are attracted to strong odors, so be sure to bathe daily to avoid these pests. Wearing clean clothing is also important for this reason, as stinging insects are more likely to linger near you if you have a strong scent.
• Avoid Flowering Plants – Stinging insects are known to hang around sweet-smelling flowers, which is why you will typically see more of them during the summer months when plants and flowers are in full bloom. When gardening or hanging out in the backyard, be sure to be aware of your surroundings and try to avoid stinging insects like wasps and hornets, as they may become aggressive if you enter their space.
• Contact an Exterminator – Contacting an exterminator is typically your best bet when dealing with stinging insects. While many of them, such as honey bees, are known to be generally docile, wasps can quickly become a nuisance and put you and your loved ones at risk of being stung. An experienced pest control professional will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.

FAQs

How do I know if I was stung or bitten?

In most cases, it can be difficult to differentiate a sting from a bite. Most insect bites release salvia, which causes redness and irritation. Venom from a sting can do the same thing, but it will be less pronounced. Ultimately, if you have an allergic reaction, you were most likely stung by an insect. 

What is worse? A yellowjacket or hornet?

On average, yellow jackets are more aggressive and feature a smooth stinger, which can sting repeatedly and painfully. 

Why do bees sting unprovoked?

Honeybees will defend their colony and sting if they feel you are a threat to their habitat.