These fall invaders, the Kudzu Bug became increasingly popular of a nuisance
in 2009, quickly invading the Southeast. The kudzu bug has gained considerable
notoriety for the economic problems it causes. Based on what is known
about other insects, a combination of day length, change in kudzu physiology,
dying host plants, and declining temperatures is thought to be responsible
for the second peak of nuisance activity occurring in the fall. In recent
years, the kudzu bugs’ migration from host plants to overwintering
sites has consistently began in mid-October and persisted until late November
or early December.
Kudzu bugs are inactive during the winter months, and seek overwintering sites in the fall. These sites include any crack or crevice where a group of bugs can aggregate. Gaps under the bark of trees, gaps under the siding of homes, and high places (such as the fascia boards and gutters on the edges of homes) are only a few examples of overwintering sites. Kudzu bugs are also attracted to light-colored surfaces, especially the color white: the white siding of a house, a white car, a white shirt, etc. When a person is exposed to the kudzu bug, an allergic reaction may occur, resulting in staining of the skin and skin irritation. Additionally, the bugs may invade the house if it is not properly sealed. It is important to remember here that kudzu bugs belong to the same superfamily as stink bugs and have been known to emit an unpleasant odor that can be hard to get out of your nose, your furniture, your carpet, etc. Crushing the bugs thus becomes a problem, as they emit an unpleasant odor and may stain the surface they are crushed upon.
So don’t let these guys invade your home. Call Preferred Pest Termite and Turf today at (865) 234-4008 to see how our Fall Invaders Power Spray can stop Kudzu Bugs in their tracks!