Stinkbugs Of North Texas

  • Appearance:
  • Stinkbugs have a shield-shaped body with a triangular scutellum (a large, shield-like structure on the thorax).
  • Their coloration varies but often includes shades of brown, green, or gray.
  • Adults typically measure between 1/4 to 3/4 inches (6 to 19 mm) in length.
  • Habitat:
  • Stinkbugs are found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, orchards, fields, and forests.
  • Some species are known to enter homes in search of shelter during colder months.
  • Feeding:
  • Stinkbugs are plant feeders and use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract juices from fruits, vegetables, and other plants.
  • Certain species are considered agricultural pests, causing damage to crops.
  • Defense Mechanism:
  • Stinkbugs are named for the foul-smelling liquid they can release from scent glands located on their thorax when threatened.
  • The odor is a deterrent to predators and can be quite potent, earning them their reputation as "stinkbugs."