In Defense of “Stink” Bugs

Since late August, various newspapers and online blogs—even such supposedly venerable publications as the Washington Post—have been promulgating horror stories about the (aiieee!) invasion of “stink bugs” into people’s homes.

These insects are doing what several insect species, including ladybugs, like to do, which is find a warm place to hibernate for the winter. All they want is to wedge themselves into an eave, windowsill, or ceiling corner and wait out the cold.

I understand that someone might be nonplussed by an influx of hundreds of insects into their home. But by and large the hype doesn’t seem at all justified. Around here, exactly one bug has attempted to take up residence in our house—in a very unassuming corner of the bathroom window—and it has since disappeared.

Also, the “stink” these bugs produce is apparently a smell quite similar to cilantro, so I have even less sympathy for those who complain about them.

And finally, I have found them to be nothing but accommodating during my macro-lens photo shoots in the neighborhood. With exemplary traits like these, I don’t see how stink bugs could be considered anything but pleasant and admirable insects.

And with that, ladies and gentlemen (and others), I rest my case.

{A note: I do write all text and take all pictures. Please do not reproduce either without my permission.}