UMass Extension Landscape Message September 18, 2014

Note: expanded information on Fall House Invaders - Claire

"Fall House Invaders: Such pests include: Ladybugs, Western Conifer Seedbug, Boxelder beetles and Brown Marmorated Stink Bug. Starting around this time of year in MA, numerous insects seek shelter in structures such as homes. For the majority of them, heated homes are not a good choice because rather than go dormant for the winter, the heat keeps them active and uses up stored reserves in their bodies designed to carry them through the winter months while dormant. Eventually, most of them die while indoors. None of them breed nor feed while indoors but their very presence, oftentimes in large numbers, can be a nuisance. Now is the time to inspect and repair all windows, doors and attic vent screening. Also inspect for caulking around doors and windows and repair as needed to preclude insect entry."

Report by Robert Childs, Extension Entomologist - Retired, Stockbridge School of Agriculture, UMass, Amherst