Midtown Stink Bugs Likely Headed For Hibernation, Only To Come Back Stronger Next Summer

MIDTOWN SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Insects are raising a stink and causing headaches for homeowners and gardeners in Midtown Sacramento.

Stink bugs are usually seen more often on the East Coast and other parts of the country. But since they were first discovered in Midtown last year, the infestation appears to be spreading.

They are creepy, crawly and will swarm your home and garden by the hundreds.

David Scutella says the brown marmorated stink bug has been devouring his plants before he can.

"They are after fruits and vegetables so I'm outta luck 'cause I eat mostly a raw, vegan food diet, and I get most of my food from my garden," he said.

Chuck Ingels with the Sacramento Cooperative Extension says he's getting dozens of complaints a week.

"They definitely squeeze into narrow spaces in the house, attics—anywhere they can find a space," he said.

The bugs are harmless, but hard to get rid of, he says. And of course, they live up to their name and smell terrible.

"When you squeeze them or even hold them in your hand, they will emit a scent that's somewhat like fermenting cilantro, smell," he said. "So it's not a very pleasant smell and its a defense mechanism."

And Ingels says this season, the stink bugs are spreading by hitching rides on people's cars.

"When you commute back and forth to Midtown, they spread to those areas and that's how they are getting to Citrus Heights, River Park, Elk Grove and different places now," he said.

And it's just a matter of time before they target Sacramento Valley farmers.

Luckily, the cooler weather will force them into hibernation mode. But they will be back, and possibly worse, next summer.