Stink bug numbers down; wet fall eyed as a reason

Stink bug numbers are down, and researchers say they suspect the wet fall weather across the mid-Atlantic might be the reason.

Jerry Burst, a pest management and vegetable specialist at the University of Maryland’s Central Maryland Research and Education Center in Upper Marlboro, told The Baltimore Sun the wet weather probably knocked many of the bugs off trees and crops, and drowned them. However, researchers say predators or parasites also could be responsible.


Researchers say they are also keeping an eye on the warm winter, noting mild temperatures preceded an extensive infestation in 2010. But University of Maryland professor Mike Raupp said a cold snap following warm weather could also cut stink bug numbers.