Pest control in Edwards is incomplete without considering western conifer seed bugs. Western conifer seed bugs are one of those pests often spotted around Edwards gardens. Commonly misidentified as stink bugs, they are actually part of the Coreidae family, not the Pentatomidae like the stink bug. The Coreidae family consists of sap-sucking "true bugs" such as cactus bugs and squash bugs. True bugs are insects with two pairs of wings that are kept partially folded against their backs. These true bugs have needle-like mouth parts used for sucking up meals.
How To Identify A Western Conifer Seed Bug
Western conifer seed bugs are fairly long, at almost an inch in length. They come in a variety of brown shades and their legs flare out wider towards the ends. They are often called "leaf-footed" bugs due to the shape of their legs. They really do look remarkably similar to brown marmorated stink bugs!
The Problems Conifer Seed Bugs Can Cause Around Your Home
Western conifer seed bugs in Edwards are nuisance pests when they congregate in and around your home. While they do not cause disease, do not bite, and do not sting, they are less than desirable to have in the home. Besides their unsightly appearance, they also emit an awful smell when gathered in large numbers.
Factors That Attract Conifer Seed Bugs To Your Home
Western conifer seed bugs live outside during the summer months, where they can feast on pinecones. Female western conifer seed bugs lay their eggs in chains on conifer needles, thus their name. Young western conifer seed bugs go through five stages of growth before reaching adulthood.
When the temperatures drop, western conifer seed bugs look for a place to overwinter, often choosing our homes. These bugs are attracted to Edwards homes that have a lot of pine trees on the property, have issues with standing water, or provide easy access for them to winter.
The best form of residential pest control is always prevention. Western conifer seed bugs will often overwinter in roofs, attics, basements, garages, barns, sheds, and wall voids. Some preventive tips to keep these insects from infesting include:
- Maintain your insect screens in windows and doors.
- Use a silicone-based caulk to seal holes or gaps in siding, around electrical, window frames, and door frames.
- Install chimney vents and roof ridge vents.
- Avoid standing water on your property.
- Keep vegetation trimmed low.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet from the side of the house.
These preventive measures are easy and effective ways to keep Western conifer seed bugs from overwintering in your Edwards home.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of Western Conifer Seed Bugs
If you already have western conifer seed bugs inside your Edwards home, avoid store-bought sprays, as these can be ineffective at best or harmful at worst. Additionally, vacuuming or crushing western conifer seed bugs releases their foul odors and may attract other pests to your home. Rather than do-it-yourself pest control, reach out to a professional. An expert, such as RAM Wildlife & Pest Management will ensure that you receive quality pest control that actually works! At RAM Wildlife & Pest Management, we are available 24/7, 365 days a year to help keep your home pest-free. We offer free estimates for new customers, tailor-made residential pest control plans, and comprehensive commercial plans to meet all of your pest control needs. With more than 25 years of experience in providing excellent care, RAM Wildlife & Pest Management can reliably and effectively handle all of your pest control needs.