The leaf footed bug is an occasional pest that can be seen entering the home during the summer. Though they are more commonly seen in the fall and winter as they search for a warm place to bunk during the colder months. They will come into the home during the summer time in search of food. For those who like to have that fruit bowl out for an easy snack, you probably have more problems with this pest than others. Additionally, once they are in your home they like to crawl in bed with you where they are often mistaken for bed bugs. Knock Em Out Pest Control will help you identify and control these occasional home invaders.
Leaf Footed Bug Identification
The leaf footed bug is a group of insect that consists of a large number of species. However most leaf footed bugs are black, brown and white, and have white or pale markings. They have a shield like shape to them but are more angular than the brown Marmorated shield stink bugs. They also have two back legs with a leaf like projection at the end. The larger species of leaf footed bugs can reach up to 1/16th of an inch in length.
Diet & Habitat of the Leaf Footed Bug
The leaf footed bug is a plant eating bug that favors produce such as fruits, vegetables and seed plants. However, they will also feed on sorghum and ornamental plants as well. Leaf footed bugs are primarily a winter pest when they find your home is a sufficient enough place to hide out the cold weather. When food becomes scarce they will fly into homes in search of food. Often they will find openings to crawl or fly through.
Leaf Footed Bug Reproduction & Life Cycle
Leaf footed bugs will mate in late spring and lay their eggs on leaves where the eggs will hatch after one week of being laid. The nymphs can reach full adulthood within 5 to 6 weeks. If conditions remain ideal, the leaf footed bug will mate all year long and can have up to three generations within a single year. Said ideal conditions are normally when they invade home or other structures and find warmth and an ongoing food supply. Each time a leaf footed bug mates, a single female can lay up to 200 eggs at a time.
Are Leaf Footed Bugs Harmful to Humans?
Leaf footed bugs are harmless to humans and are not destructive to homes or other human domains. However, they are known to spread disease to plants, especially when they lay their eggs. They are considered a produce pest and major populations of leaf footed bugs are normally tolerated. That is why if you see them in your home, it is best to suck them up with a vacuum. Avoid crushing them because they emit a terrible odor if crushed.
Prevention of Leaf Footed Bugs
To prevent a huge population of leaf footed bugs, you will want to maintain a well kept yard. They will feed on seeds from weeds as well as other plants. However it helps to reduce the food source as much as possible. Avoid having wood stacked too close to your home. They are drawn to piles of wood to hide in. To help keep them out of your home seal up any cracks large enough for leaf footed bugs to crawl through. Make sure window screens are secure and in good condition.
Leaf Footed Bug Inspections, Control & Removal in Bloomfield Hills, Canton, Farmington Hills, Milford, New Hudson, Northville, Novi, South Lyon, Wixom, Dexter, Brighton, Saline & Greater Ann Arbor, Michigan
Now is the time to prepare your home for these unwanted invaders. If you need help controlling these pests around your home, Knock Em Out Pest Control can help you handle any pest. Contact Knock Em Out Pest Control to be pest free today.
