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Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Halyomorpha halys

HarmlessCommon

Quick answer

Harmless to people, but smells bad when crushed. Safety level: Harmless.

How to identify the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

A shield-shaped, mottled brown bug about 12-17 mm long.
Light and dark bands on the antennae and along the edge of the abdomen.
Gives off a strong, unpleasant smell when disturbed or crushed.
Size: 12–17 mm.

Where it lives

Native to East Asia and invasive in North America and Europe. It feeds on fruit, vegetables and crops in summer and gathers on sunny walls in autumn, looking for a way indoors for winter.

Is it dangerous?

Stink bugs are harmless to people and pets. They do not bite or sting and do not damage homes. The main problems are their smell and the damage they cause to crops.

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Children and pets

Safe. Just a nasty smell.

What to do

Don't crush it indoors; carry it out.
Seal gaps around windows in autumn.

Fun fact

It releases its smell to scare off birds.

Frequently asked questions

Do stink bugs bite?

No. They have mouthparts for plant sap and do not bite people.

How do I remove stink bugs without the smell?

Gently catch them in a cup or jar and carry them outside instead of crushing them.

How do I keep stink bugs out?

Seal cracks around windows, doors and vents before autumn.