Little Bug Can Cause Big Stink

Northern Spokane County residents who ventured outside into forested areas the past two weeks surely must have wondered about those thousands of bugs ganging up on the sides of buildings and trees.

Most likely, they were the Western leaf-footed bug.

These are true bugs and they’ve been busy looking for a place to hole up for the winter.

Houses and garages probably seem far more inviting than a crevice in the bark of a tree.

In the forest the leaf-footed bug can be a formidable pest. Both the mature and nymph stages feed on the cones of Douglas firs and ponderosa pines. They have been known to destroy nearly the entire crop in a forest seed orchard.

The damage is done when its long proboscis (nose) is inserted into a cone to suck juices from the seeds. When not in use, the proboscis is folded back under the abdomen, so you may not notice it at first.

To identify the leaf-footed bug, look closely for an X shape on its back. This is an easily recognized distinguishing characteristic of the true bugs.

To get even more specific, look for the flattened area shaped like a leaf on its back legs. Also note the alternating black and white around the edges of the abdomen.

Generally, they are reddish brown and about 18mm long.

Don’t let your curiosity get you too close, however. Leaf-footed bugs can emit an odor like a stinkbug.

During the warm part of the day, the bugs are quite active. Just walking near a wall or large tree is likely to make you think you are being dive bombed.

In the early morning those that have not found shelter will be around your foundation or all over the patio. They will be moving slowly, but be cautious. When disturbed, they will emit an awful odor that will stick to your clothing and fingers.

When you find them in your home, it is recommended that you not swat them, since that will release the odor indoors. You might try doubling a paper towel and picking them up to send them back outside or some perhaps flush them away.

To keep them from over-wintering in the walls and attic of your house, be certain that all cracks and crevices are sealed to prevent entry. Keep all doors and windows screened or closed as well. Cooler weather will stop the invasion.