Stink Bugs and Boxelder Bugs: Dealing with Seasonal Invaders

February 11, 2026 · Regional Pest Guide Team · seasonal prevention

Every fall, millions of homeowners deal with the same uninvited guests: stink bugs, boxelder bugs, Asian lady beetles, and other overwintering pests that cluster on sunny exterior walls before finding their way inside.

Key Strategies

  • These pests don’t reproduce indoors or cause structural damage — they’re just seeking warmth for the winter. They’re a nuisance, not a threat
  • Prevention is everything — once they’re in your walls, there’s no practical way to treat them. Seal entry points in late summer BEFORE they start congregating
  • Focus on south and west-facing walls — overwintering pests are attracted to warm, sun-heated surfaces
  • Seal around windows, doors, utility penetrations, soffits, and fascia boards. Even tiny gaps are enough

Additional Considerations

  • Don’t crush stink bugs — they release a foul odor when disturbed. Vacuum them up or capture in soapy water
  • Boxelder bugs are harmless but leave staining excrement. Vacuum promptly and clean affected surfaces
  • Asian lady beetles (multi-colored Asian ladybugs) bite and release a yellow, foul-smelling fluid. They’re the most problematic of the overwintering pests
  • In spring, when overwintered pests emerge inside your home, simply vacuum and release them outdoors. Then seal entry points for next fall

Taking Action

The key themes here are overwintering fall spring prevention nuisance. Start with prevention, monitor for early signs of problems, and escalate to targeted treatments only when needed. Most pest issues are far easier to prevent than to resolve after they’re established.

Planting dates by zip code? Check out GardeningByZone for planting dates by zip code.

🏡 More from EPM Labs: