Stink Bug Eating Habits

Stink bugs may be best known for the odor they release when disturbed, but their eating habits can also cause significant problems, especially for gardeners and farmers. These pests feed on a wide variety of plants, fruits, and crops by using their specialized mouthparts to pierce surfaces and suck out nutrients.

What plants do stink bugs eat?

Most stink bugs are plant feeders. The first generation in the spring often feed on weeds or grasses. As they develop into adults, they often migrate into fields, orchards and residential landscapes. Common plants and crops stink bugs feed on include:

  • Tomatoes

  • Peppers

  • Apples

  • Peaches

  • Corn

  • Soybeans

When stink bugs feed on fruits like peaches or apples, they pierce the skin with their mouthparts and inject saliva into the tissue. This saliva damages the fruit at a cellular level, causing scars as the fruit continues to grow. In some cases, the damage makes the fruit resemble a cat’s face, which is why stink bugs are sometimes called “cat-facing insects.”


Stink bugs don’t just target fruit. They also feed on the stems and leaves of plants. Their feeding can make crops unsellable and may create entry points for other pests or diseases. In large numbers, stink bugs can become serious agricultural pests in gardens, farms, and orchards.

Do stink bugs eat other insects?

Most stink bugs, especially the brown marmorated stink bug, feed only on plants. However, a few species, such as the spined soldier bug, are considered beneficial because they feed on other insects. These predatory stink bugs have been found feeding on velvet bean caterpillars, root weevils, Colorado potato beetles and southern green stink bugs.

What do stink bugs eat inside homes?

Stink bugs do not feed on people, pets, or household items. If they enter your home, it’s typically to find shelter from cold weather, not to search for food. Indoor sightings usually increase in the fall and winter as stink bugs look for warm, protected spaces.

Stink Bug Pest Control

If stink bugs are showing up in or around your home, call your local Orkin branch for help. An Orkin Pro will inspect your property, identify potential entry points and attractants, and recommend a treatment plan to help get rid of stink bugs.

More Information

Do Stink Bugs Bite?

Stink bugs don’t bite or sting humans, but they can release a foul-smelling odor when disturbed as a defense mechanism.

Do Stink Bugs Stink?

Stink bugs release a strong, herb-like odor when disturbed, produced by glands on their abdomen to deter predators. Some species can even squirt this smell several inches when threatened.

How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs

Learn how stink bugs enter homes, the damage they can cause, and when to contact Orkin for help with inspection and effective stink bug control.

Stink Bug Traps

Stink bugs are strong fliers, so sticky traps designed for crawling insects often miss these pests and quickly become overwhelmed in large numbers.

Stink Bugs and Cedar Spray

Cedar spray may offer limited deterrence against stink bugs, but it's generally ineffective for repelling large infestations. Effective control involves sealing entry points and reducing outdoor clutter.

Stink Bugs and Citrus

Stink bugs, particularly the southern green stink bug, are attracted to citrus fruits like tangerines and satsumas.

Stink Bugs in the Garden

Stink bugs feed on garden plants by piercing leaves, stems, and fruit to suck out juices. Their feeding can cause spots, scarring, and reduced plant health.

What Are Stink Bugs?

Learn about stink bug habits, the risks they pose to homes and gardens, and how Orkin can help with effective prevention and control solutions.

What Does a Stink Bug Look Like?

Discover the physical appearance of stink bugs, including their shield-shaped bodies, colors, and key characteristics to help you identify them around your home.

Resources

Stink Bugs Home Protection

I have stink bugs all around my house

Why Do Stink Bugs Stink?

What Does a Stink Bug Look Like?

Can Stink Bugs Bite or Sting Humans?

What Eats Stink Bugs?

Stink Bug Traps

Where Do Stink Bugs Come From?

Stink Bug Eggs

What are Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs?

Where Do Stink Bugs Live?

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