Seed Bugs

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seed bugs
These bugs are new to our area. I first saw them last fall around the back door of a farm house in Chimacum by the hundreds.  They are much like lady bugs or box elder beetles, if you are familiar with either of those species. They just want to get warm and find  a place to hide.  They are not harmful yet a huge nuisance. The warm weather makes them more active and then when we will get some colder or wet, it signals to them to look for shelter.  Sealing cracks, vacuuming them up and being patient are good strategies. Frequently new species in any area have  a population bulge that will lessen in a few years. If you choose to use a pesticide: follow the direction on the container and stay safe.  The label is the law. 
 Please let me know if you have any other questions on this nuisance insect. You can reply by posting a comment here.
Madame Parsley,   WSU MG Jefferson County
For successful pest management, use IPM (Integrated Pest Management)
 

 

Biology
Seed bugs are true bugs with piercing-sucking mouthparts. The front wings are hardened or leathery near the base with distinct veins and membranous near the tips. The wings are crossed in an X pattern when folded. Seed bugs vary in size from under 1/4″ to about 1/2″ in length. The body is narrow, flattened, and elongate. The many species of native and introduced seed bugs are variously colored and marked, from grayish or brownish to dark brown or black marked with white. Two introduced, exotic species (Raglansalbo acuminatus, the “tuxedo bug,” and Rhyparochromis vulgaris) have recently become a nuisance in homes in some areas. Seed bugs are attracted (possibly by lights or warmth) to homes in early to late fall, often in large numbers. They may be a particular nuisance in areas near fields or weedy lots. These insects do not cause any damage to buildings, nor are they pests of stored foods. Some seed bugs give off an objectionable odor, while others may occasionally bite. Seed bugs may enter the home in large numbers through vent screens, thresholds, gaps in and around window and door framing, with firewood, etc.

Management Options

Select Non-chemical Management Options as Your First Choice!!
  • Do not store firewood indoors. Bring it in immediately before use.
  • Install screens and other devices to keep bugs out of your house.
  • Physically destroy the bugs. Be aware that this sometimes results in the emission of an objectionable odor.
  • Vacuum seed bugs and dispose of the vacuum bag in the outside garbage.
Revision Date:2/27/2014

If you choose to use a pesticide, some examples of products that are legal in Washington are listed below. Some products are labeled for just INDOOR or just OUTDOOR use, or may allow both uses. Be sure to choose a product appropriate for your situation.

Always read and follow all label directions.

  • Bayer Advanced Home Pest Control Indoor & Outdoor Insect Killer RThis list may not include all products registered for this use.
  • This list may not include all products registered for this use.

http://hortsense.cahnrs.wsu.edu/Home/HortsenseHome.aspx

http://schoolipm.wsu.edu/

http://pestsense.cahnrs.wsu.edu/Home/PestsenseHome.aspx

 

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