What Are Kudzu Bugs?
Kudzu bugs are a type of true bug, which are an order of insects that include cicadas, aphids, and bed bugs. Because of their appearance, many people think that kudzu bugs are beetles, when in fact, they are actually more closely related to stink bugs.
Adult kudzu bugs grow to be about ¼ of an inch in length (about the size of a ladybug). They have a square body shape and are a mottled, greenish-brown color. Their sucking, piercing mouthparts are beak-like in appearance.
Kudzu bugs are relatively new to the United States. They were accidentally brought to the country on cargo ships in 2009, and their population here has been growing ever since.
Are Kudzu Bugs Harmful?
Kudzu bugs do not pose any health danger to people or pets. They are, however, considered to be agricultural pests that cause damage to kudzu plants, soybeans, and other crops by using their specialized mouthparts to suck the juice out of plants.
If kudzu bugs get into your home, they can cause minor damage by staining your belongings, especially if you try to squish them. They also emit an unpleasant odor.
What Causes Kudzu Bugs?
Kudzu bugs often become troublesome during the late fall months. Similar to other overwintering species of insects, kudzu bugs will move to warm, sunny sides of homes and other buildings during the autumn months as daytime and nighttime temperatures begin to drop.
Once on the exterior of your home, they can then easily enter the structure through any cracks and crevices they encounter while crawling around. After they get inside, kudzu bugs will hide behind walls, in crawl spaces, and underneath floors where they remain dormant until the weather warms and they can move outdoors.
How To Get Rid of Kudzu Bugs
The most effective way to get rid of kudzu bugs is with the help of a professional who can find all the places in your home where they are hiding and provide effective treatment options to safely help with the infestation.
At All-American Pest Control, we can help with your kudzu bug problem with misting and crack and crevice treatments through our Perimeter Plus home pest control service. This plan provides quarterly treatments that will not only eliminate active infestations but will also prevent kudzu bugs from getting into your home in the first place.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get rid of kudzu bugs myself?
Since kudzu bugs arrived in Tennessee, many property owners have tried without much success to get rid of these pests on their own. Do-it-yourself products usually prove to be ineffective because they don’t treat the root of the problem. In order to successfully eliminate kudzu bugs, you have to address how the kudzu bugs are entering your home. DIY products can also be dangerous for you and your pets if they are not properly placed or mixed.
The best way to get rid of kudzu bugs is to get the help of All-American Pest Control. We will eliminate your kudzu bug infestation and prevent new kudzu bugs from getting into your house. Find out more about our kudzu bug pest control here.
How do I prevent future kudzu bug infestations?
The best way to prevent problems with kudzu bugs and other overwintering insects is to seal up any potential entry points in and around your home. Do this by:
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Sealing or caulking gaps, cracks, and crevices in your foundation and around windows and doors
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Installing door sweeps
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Sealing around air conditioners and utility entrances
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Repairing or replacing torn window and door screens
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Installing tight-fitting chimney caps
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Checking vent covers and roof soffits to ensure they are secure and intact
If you experience problems with kudzu bugs, contact All-American Pest Control and speak to one of our professionals to learn how we can help to control kudzu bugs in your home.
Why choose All-American Pest Control?
All-American Pest Control has been solving pest problems for over 60 years. When kudzu bugs arrived in Tennessee, we were ready for them because of our knowledge and experience treating related pests. We are your best choice for a kudzu bug problem.
With All-American Pest Control, you’ll receive services, a serious commitment, and thorough treatments from our trained pest control experts in Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Get in touch with us by phone or by requesting a free home consultation today.