Pennsylvania’s gardens and homes are often visited by a surprising group of uninvited guests—stink bugs.
These little critters might be small, but their presence and pungent defense tactics are hard to ignore.
From colorful patterns to sneaky behaviors, each kind brings its own quirky twist to the mix.
Whether you’re a bug watcher or just curious why your windows seem extra popular, these common stink bugs have plenty of stories to tell.
1. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
The notorious foreign invader that’s taken Pennsylvania by storm! Originally from Asia, these mottled brown pests arrived in Allentown in the late 1990s and have been terrorizing homes ever since.
They’re masters of home invasion during fall, seeking warm places to overwinter.
Their shield-shaped bodies measure about 3/4 inch long with distinctive white bands on their antennae and abdomen edges.
2. Green Stink Bug
Bright as a freshly minted leaf, these emerald troublemakers stand out against Pennsylvania’s foliage. Unlike their brown marmorated cousins, green stink bugs are native to North America.
Farm fields and gardens become their personal buffets where they pierce plant tissues with needle-like mouthparts.
Adults reach about 3/4 inch long with a vibrant lime-green coloration that makes them look deceptively pretty for such destructive critters.
3. Brown Stink Bug
Often mistaken for its infamous Asian relative, this native Pennsylvania resident has been here long before the marmorated invasion began. Its earth-toned body blends perfectly with tree bark and soil.
These agricultural pests particularly enjoy munching on developing fruits and vegetables.
Look for their yellowish spots along the abdomen and slightly rounded shoulders—key differences from the marmorated variety that only bug enthusiasts might appreciate!
4. Southern Green Stink Bug
Despite its name suggesting southern hospitality, this bright green menace has been making unwelcome appearances throughout Pennsylvania gardens.
Climate change has helped expand its range northward from its traditional southern territories. Agricultural fields become their playground where they attack everything from tomatoes to soybeans.
Their brilliant green bodies feature a distinctive pointed “shoulder” on each side, making them look like they’re wearing tiny epaulets.
5. Spined Soldier Bug
Finally, a stink bug Pennsylvania gardeners might actually welcome! Unlike its crop-destroying relatives, this beneficial predator hunts caterpillars and other garden pests.
Their grayish-brown bodies sport distinctive pointed “shoulders” that give them their soldierly name.
Farmers sometimes purchase these helpful bugs as natural pest control. Fun fact: they’re one of the few stink bugs that actually help your garden instead of destroying it!
6. Rough Stink Bug
Camouflage masters of the Pennsylvania forest! These textured bugs look remarkably like bits of tree bark or dried leaves, making them nearly invisible against their natural habitat.
Their rough, bumpy exterior feels like sandpaper compared to their smoother stink bug cousins. They primarily feed on trees rather than garden plants, targeting caterpillars and beetle larvae. Their mottled gray-brown coloration helps them blend perfectly into Pennsylvania’s woodland landscapes.
7. Blue Shieldbug
A metallic marvel among Pennsylvania’s stink bug population! These stunning insects shimmer with an iridescent blue-green color that makes them look like living jewels among the garden foliage.
Despite their beautiful appearance, they’re skilled predators that hunt other insects. Pennsylvania gardeners appreciate these uncommon beauties for their pest control services. Their relatively small size (about 1/4 inch) and brilliant coloration make them one of the most distinctive stink bugs in the state.
8. Green Burgundy Stink Bug
Nature’s two-tone fashion statement buzzing around Pennsylvania’s woodlands! These stylish bugs sport a green shield with distinctive burgundy-red bands across their backs – like they’re wearing tiny wine-colored scarves.
Forest edges and orchards become their preferred hangouts where they feed primarily on trees.
Unlike some of their more destructive relatives, they rarely cause significant damage. Their unique coloration makes them one of the most visually striking stink bugs in Pennsylvania.
9. Rice Stink Bug
Slender and straw-colored, these agricultural specialists have expanded their menu well beyond their namesake crop in Pennsylvania.
Their narrow bodies distinguish them from the typical shield shape of other stink bugs. Grain fields become their dining destination where they pierce developing seeds with their needle-like mouthparts.
Though less common in suburban areas, farmers throughout Pennsylvania’s agricultural regions know them all too well. Their pale tan coloration helps them blend perfectly with dried grasses and grain stalks.
10. Black-and-Red Stink Bug
Dressed like tiny Halloween decorations, these dramatic bugs bring a splash of color to Pennsylvania gardens!
Their bold black bodies adorned with bright red markings make them impossible to miss despite their small size.
Unlike many stink bugs, they primarily target weeds rather than crops. Pennsylvania gardeners often spot these striking insects on plants in the mint family.
At just 1/4 inch long, they’re among the smallest stink bugs in the state, but their striking appearance makes them memorable.