Identify stink bugs and boxelder bugs
Brown marmorated stink bugs
Shield-shaped and mottled brown, about as big as a dime. They give off a sharp odor when crushed or squeezed.
Boxelder bugs
Black with red-orange markings along the edges. They gather on sunny walls and often live near boxelder, maple, and ash trees.
Signs you have stink bugs and boxelder bugs
- Clusters on a sunny south or west wall in fall
- Bugs crawling slowly on windows in winter and early spring
- A sharp, sour smell where you have disturbed a stink bug
- Dead bugs collecting in light fixtures and window tracks
Why they come inside
As days shorten, both look for cracks to hide in for the winter. Gaps around windows, siding, and utility lines are where they get in, then warm days wake them up indoors.
How Go Go treats them
This is mostly an exclusion job. We inspect for gaps around windows, doors, and siding, treat the places they gather, and recommend sealing and screening so fewer get in next fall.
Covered by a protection plan?
Yes. Stink bugs and boxelder bugs are on the plan, so a fall visit can treat the walls and gaps they target. See how plans work →
FAQ
Stink Bugs & Boxelder Bugs: common questions
Do stink bugs damage my home?
No. They do not eat wood or fabric, but they do stain surfaces and give off an odor when disturbed.
Why do they show up all at once?
They gather in large groups on warm fall days as they look for places to overwinter.
Should I vacuum them?
You can, but empty the bag outside right away, because stink bugs release an odor in the vacuum.