Creepy, Stinky, and Everywhere: Why Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs Love Andover Homes
If you’re starting to see odd-looking bugs creeping on your walls or window frames this time of year, you’re not alone. Every fall, I get calls from homeowners across Andover and North Andover asking, “What are these weird, shield-shaped bugs—and why are they in my house?”
Those, my friends, are Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs. They’re slow, creepy, and if you squish them, you’ll instantly regret it. I’ve been in pest control for over 25 years, and I can tell you—these little guys are some of the most persistent fall house invaders we deal with around here.
What Exactly Are Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs?
They’re an invasive species that first showed up in Massachusetts a little over a decade ago. Native to Asia, they hitched a ride on shipments and have been spreading ever since.
They’ve got a distinct shield-shaped body, mottled brown coloring, and long antennae. You’ll usually find them on windows, curtains, or walls—especially on sunny sides of the house.
And yes, they stink. When threatened, they release a pungent odor that smells somewhere between musty cilantro and old gym socks.
Why You’re Seeing Them Now
Every fall, as the temperature dips, stink bugs look for a warm, safe spot to ride out the winter. Homes in Andover, North Andover, and surrounding areas are prime targets because we’ve got the perfect mix of older construction, wood siding, and plenty of nearby trees and gardens where these bugs live through the summer.
They get in through:
Loose siding or soffits
Gaps around window frames and doors
Attic vents and chimneys
Utility openings and exhaust vents
Once inside, they’ll hunker down in your walls, attic, or basement until spring. Then, as the weather warms up, they start moving around again—usually right when you think you’re in the clear.
Why Crushing Them Makes Things Worse
This is the number one mistake I see homeowners make. Stink bugs might move slow, but when you squash them, they fight back with that foul odor. It’s a natural defense mechanism meant to scare off predators, but in your house, it just means you’ll be smelling it for hours.
Instead of crushing them:
Use a vacuum with a disposable bag (empty it outside afterward).
Gently trap them in a cup or paper towel and release them outside.
Avoid using chemical sprays indoors—they won’t reach the ones hiding behind walls.
What You Can Do Right Now to Keep Them Out
Over the years, I’ve found that a little prevention before the first frost saves a lot of frustration later. Here’s what I recommend:
Seal up entry points. Walk around your house and check for cracks around siding, doors, windows, and foundation gaps.
Replace worn weatherstripping. It helps with both pests and heating bills.
Screen attic vents and chimney caps. These are common access points for all kinds of insects.
Reduce outdoor lighting. Stink bugs are drawn to bright lights near doors and windows.
Schedule a fall pest barrier treatment. A professional treatment can stop new bugs from finding their way in and cut off future infestations.
A Quick Note From Experience
Most of the homes I visit around Andover that struggle with stink bugs have one thing in common: they didn’t notice the small gaps until it was too late. Once these pests are inside your walls, sprays won’t help—you’ll just have to wait for them to come out again in spring.
That’s why I always tell people, don’t wait until you’re seeing them indoors. Fall prevention is key.
And don’t feel bad if you’ve got them. It’s not a sign of poor cleanliness—it’s just the nature of New England homes and our changing seasons.
FAQs About Stink Bugs
Q: Do stink bugs bite or spread disease?
No, they don’t bite or carry diseases. They’re just a nuisance because of the odor and the sheer number that can gather indoors.
Q: Will they die off in winter?
They go dormant indoors and come back to life once the temperature rises, which is why people suddenly see them again in March or April.
Q: Can I use bug spray or foggers?
Not effectively. They hide deep inside walls where sprays can’t reach. The best results come from sealing and professional exclusion treatments.
Final Thoughts
Here in Andover, stink bugs have become part of our fall routine, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. After 25 years in this business, I’ve seen how one small entry point can turn into hundreds of bugs showing up in your living room.
If you’re starting to see these creepy, stinky bugs around your house, give us a call before the real cold sets in. At Andover Pest Control, we’ll help you seal your home tight, keep the bugs out, and make sure you can enjoy the season without any unwanted guests.