What Dover Homeowners Should Expect From Stink Bug Season
Dover homeowners should expect stink bugs to arrive in late September and October, when adults leave plants and look for a protected place to spend the winter. Homes on the edge of town close to farm fields and orchards tend to see the biggest crowds because brown marmorated stink bugs feed on many kinds of crops and move to buildings as fall arrives. Sealing the exterior before they gather is the most effective step.
Where Stink Bugs Get In and What to Do
| Entry point | What to look for | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Windows and screens | Gaps in the frame, torn or loose screens | Caulk the frame and repair the screen |
| Doors and garage doors | Worn weatherstripping, daylight under the door | Replace weatherstripping and fit a tight sweep |
| Siding, fascia, and soffits | Open joints, loose panels, and unscreened vents | Seal joints and screen the vents |
| Pipes and utility lines | Gaps around where lines enter the house | Seal with caulk or a patch rated for the gap |
Myth: Stink Bugs Are a Sign the House Is Failing
Stink bugs gather on sound homes too. Washington State University Extension notes that large numbers of adults are attracted to the outside of buildings on warm fall days. The bugs come for warmth and shelter, and a well-kept house with a few open gaps draws them just as a neglected one does.
What a Seasonal Visit Covers
Frontline Pest Control's general pest control plan includes four seasonal treatments a year, covering the foundation, the eaves, and the yard, with indoor treatment at entry points and garages where needed. Complimentary service calls between visits cover bugs that show up after a treatment. Our general prevention guide covers the exterior habits that help, and our overview of common summer pests near Dover covers the other pests homeowners deal with each year.
Common Questions About Stink Bugs in Dover
When do stink bugs start showing up in Dover?
Late September and October is when adults begin searching for winter shelter. The heaviest flights follow a cool day with a sunny afternoon.
Do homes near farm fields get more stink bugs?
Often, yes. Stink bugs feed on many kinds of crops and move toward buildings as fall arrives, so homes close to fields and orchards often see larger crowds.
What happens if stink bugs come back between visits?
Frontline Pest Control's general pest control plan includes complimentary service calls between scheduled visits, so stink bugs that appear after a treatment do not wait for the next seasonal visit.
Does pest control cover stink bugs?
Frontline Pest Control's seasonal service treats the foundation, eaves, and yard, and a technician can confirm how stink bugs fit your plan at your address. Sealing entry points remains the most effective step.
Want to know what a visit would cover at your home? Call Frontline Pest Control at 443-884-5571 and we'll help you figure out the right next step.