Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Reporting Rules: Homeowner Guide

Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) reporting is crucial for tracking and managing this invasive pest across the United States. Every region has specific requirements, from mandatory reporting in high-priority areas to optional documentation in established zones. This comprehensive guide covers identification techniques, state-by-state reporting protocols, and effective homeowner management strategies to help you contribute to invasive species control while protecting your property.

How to Identify Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs for Accurate Reporting

Before reporting a potential brown marmorated stink bug sighting, you must confirm you’re dealing with this specific invasive species and not a native look-alike. Here’s how to identify BMSB with confidence.

The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) has several distinctive features that separate it from native species. Adult BMSBs measure 14-17mm long with a shield-shaped body and a marbled brown pattern on their backs. The most definitive identification feature is the white banding on both antennae and legs.

In my years of pest management work, I’ve found that many homeowners confuse BMSB with beneficial native stink bugs. The key differences are:

Feature	Brown Marmorated Stink Bug	Native Stink Bugs
Antennae	White bands clearly visible	Usually solid-colored
Body edge	Alternating light/dark pattern	Often solid or differently patterned
Shoulder points	Smooth, rounded	Often pointed or spined
Underside	Light-colored or white	Often green, brown, or red

Nymphs (immature BMSBs) look quite different from adults. They’re smaller with a more rounded shape and display red and black coloration when very young, gradually developing the brown marbled pattern as they mature.

Most commonly, you’ll encounter these pests seeking shelter in homes during fall, clustering around windows, door frames, and attics. During summer, they’re frequently found on fruit trees, vegetables, and ornamental plants where they cause characteristic feeding damage. Managing brown marmorated stink bugs on fruit trees and ornamental plants requires special attention to prevent damage.

Now that you can confidently identify BMSB, let’s explore whether reporting is required in your region and how to proceed.

State-by-State BMSB Reporting Requirements: What You Need to Know

Brown marmorated stink bug reporting requirements vary significantly by region. Some states require mandatory reporting of sightings, while others only encourage voluntary reporting for tracking purposes. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of requirements by state.

Reporting requirements fall into four main categories:

1. Mandatory reporting states – Legal requirement to report sightings, sometimes with penalties for non-compliance
2. Encouraged reporting states – Established populations exist, but officials track spread and density
3. Critical detection states – Recently discovered populations where every sighting is valuable data
4. Monitoring-only states – Widespread establishment with selective reporting needed

Northeastern States Reporting Guidelines (CT, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT)

The Northeast region experienced the earliest BMSB invasions in the U.S., with varying reporting protocols now established across states.

Pennsylvania and Maryland, as early invasion states, have the most developed reporting systems. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture maintains an online reporting portal and offers a dedicated hotline (1-866-253-7189) for BMSB sightings. Maryland’s reporting focuses on agricultural impacts, with the University of Maryland Extension collecting both residential and farm sightings.

New York and New Jersey encourage reporting through their invasive species hotlines, while the New England states (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT) have transitioned to primarily monitoring established populations rather than tracking every sighting.

Most Northeastern states now use the EDDMapS (Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System) platform for standardized reporting, making it easier for residents to document sightings consistently.

Midwestern States Reporting Guidelines (IL, IN, IA, KS, MI, MN, MO, NE, ND, OH, SD, WI)

Midwestern states have varying BMSB populations and reporting requirements, with some areas experiencing recent range expansion.

Ohio has developed one of the most comprehensive reporting systems in the region due to significant agricultural impacts. The Ohio State University Extension collects reports through both their agricultural pest survey and a dedicated invasive species portal.

Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota consider BMSB detection high priority, especially in northern counties where populations are still becoming established. These states request all sightings be reported to their respective departments of agriculture.

In contrast, Illinois and Indiana have established populations in many counties and primarily focus reporting efforts on agricultural settings and new county records rather than residential sightings.

Several Midwestern states offer specialized agricultural reporting pathways for commercial producers that differ from homeowner reporting channels, particularly focusing on crop damage documentation.

Southern States Reporting Guidelines (AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV)

Southern states have experienced varying BMSB pressure, with some areas only recently detecting this invasive pest.

Virginia and West Virginia, having longer BMSB establishment, maintain comprehensive reporting systems through their cooperative extension services. Virginia Tech’s Pest Management Division actively collects citizen reports through both online forms and a mobile app.

The Gulf states (AL, FL, LA, MS) consider BMSB an emerging threat and strongly encourage reporting of all sightings, especially in agricultural settings where economic damage potential is highest.

North Carolina and Georgia have developed specialized reporting for high-value crop areas, particularly focusing on tree fruits, small fruits, and vegetables where BMSB causes significant economic damage.

Climate considerations affect southern detection efforts, as BMSB may complete additional generations per year in warmer southern climates, making seasonal reporting patterns different from northern states.

Western States Reporting Guidelines (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NV, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY)

Western states have unique BMSB challenges and some of the most active reporting programs, particularly in Pacific Coast regions.

California’s reporting system is notably rigorous, with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) maintaining an active detection and reporting protocol. Their system includes an online reporting form, the CDFA Pest Hotline (1-800-491-1899), and the option to submit specimens to county agricultural commissioners.

Oregon and Washington have developed specialized reporting platforms through their state universities, focusing particularly on agricultural impacts in fruit-growing regions. These states utilize pheromone-based monitoring networks complemented by citizen reporting.

The Western IPM Center coordinates regional efforts, providing standardized reporting tools across western states while maintaining state-specific response protocols.

Mountain states (CO, ID, MT, WY) have seen recent range expansion and particularly value reports from new counties or elevations. These states generally direct reports through university extension services.

Hawaii maintains unique quarantine considerations, with all potential BMSB sightings treated as high priority and subject to immediate response from agricultural authorities.

How to Document and Submit an Effective BMSB Report: Step-by-Step Guide

Submitting a complete, accurate report of brown marmorated stink bug sightings helps researchers track this invasive pest’s spread and develop management strategies. Follow these steps to ensure your report contributes valuable data.

1. Photograph the specimen – Take clear, well-lit photos showing:
   • Top view showing shield shape and marbled pattern
   • Side view capturing the characteristic white bands on antennae
   • Include a size reference (coin, ruler) in at least one photo
2. Record precise location details
   • GPS coordinates if possible (most smartphones can provide these)
   • Street address and county
   • Habitat description (garden, inside home, forest edge, etc.)
3. Document additional details
   • Date and time
   • Estimated number of bugs seen (individual or aggregate count)
   • Host plant or structure where found
   • Any visible damage observed
4. Collect a specimen (if required)
   • Check your state reporting guidelines to determine if physical specimens are needed
   • Use a small container with ventilation holes
   • Avoid crushing the bug (releases odor and damages identifying features)
5. Choose the appropriate reporting method for your state
   • State agriculture department website
   • University extension reporting form
   • EDDMapS mobile app or website
   • iNaturalist app (ensure location services are enabled)
   • Dedicated invasive species hotline
6. Submit your report with all collected information
7. Save confirmation of your submission (screenshot, email, reference number)
8. Be available for follow-up questions from authorities

The most common reporting errors include insufficient photos (especially missing the diagnostic white bands on antennae), imprecise location data, and confusing native stink bugs with BMSB. Knowing how sticky bands and nets perform against BMSB can be helpful when documenting your control efforts in your report.

When using popular reporting platforms like EDDMapS or iNaturalist, make sure to tag your observation specifically as Brown Marmorated Stink Bug or Halyomorpha halys to ensure it’s routed to the proper monitoring networks.

What Happens After You Report BMSB: The Process and Timeline

Many homeowners wonder what happens after they submit a brown marmorated stink bug report. The response varies by region and detection status, but here’s what you can typically expect.

Once your report is submitted, it enters a verification process where entomologists or trained specialists review your photos and information to confirm the identification. This typically takes 3-7 business days, though urgent reports in areas without previous detection may receive faster attention.

If your identification is confirmed, your data is added to distribution maps and monitoring databases. This information helps track the spread of BMSB and informs management strategies.

Site visits are rare for residential reports of established populations but are more common in:

• Agricultural settings with significant crop damage
• First detections in previously uninfested counties
• Reports indicating unusually large populations

You’ll typically receive confirmation that your report was received, and many systems provide notification when the identification has been verified. Some states follow up with management recommendations specific to your situation.

In my experience working with homeowners on BMSB reporting, most don’t realize that their individual reports contribute to a larger dataset that helps researchers understand invasion patterns and develop targeted management approaches. A single report might seem insignificant, but when combined with thousands of others, these citizen science contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of BMSB biology and spread.

If you don’t receive confirmation within two weeks, it’s appropriate to follow up with the reporting agency. Your data privacy is protected by most reporting systems, which typically only publish the general location (county level) rather than your specific address.

Effective BMSB Management Strategies for Homeowners: Before and After Reporting

Whether or not reporting is required in your region, you’ll want to take action to manage brown marmorated stink bugs on your property. Here are proven, effective strategies that complement the reporting process.

The moment you identify BMSB, take immediate steps to prevent further infestation. For bugs already inside your home, the vacuum method is highly effective. Use a vacuum with a sock inserted in the tube (secured with a rubber band at the opening) to catch bugs, then dispose of the sealed sock outside or in soapy water. Natural pest control methods can be particularly effective for stink bugs and other household invaders.

To prevent home invasion, focus on exclusion techniques:

• Seal cracks around windows, doors, siding, utility pipes, and chimneys with quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk
• Install weather stripping around entry doors and garage doors
• Replace damaged screens on windows, doors, and vents
• Install screen mesh over attic gable vents and other openings
• Reduce exterior lighting at night during peak activity periods (August-October)

For outdoor management, consider these approaches:

• Remove seed pods and fruit from landscape plants where possible
• Shake trees over tarps to collect and destroy bugs during morning hours when they’re less active
• Traps and barriers can help reduce populations without chemicals
• Use sticky bands on tree trunks to catch nymphs as they climb

If considering chemical options, choose targeted applications rather than broad-spectrum treatments that harm beneficial insects. Natural predators and parasites can help suppress BMSB populations, especially in garden settings.

The timing of control measures is critical. Focus exclusion efforts in late summer before bugs begin seeking winter shelter, and monitor closely during spring emergence when bugs are leaving overwintering sites.

Seasonal BMSB Management Calendar: Timing Your Control Efforts

Brown marmorated stink bugs exhibit predictable seasonal behaviors that inform when and how you should implement different management strategies.

Spring (March-May): BMSB emerge from overwintering sites. This is an excellent time for monitoring and reporting as bugs become active. Look for them on sunny exterior walls. Inside homes, vacuum any emerging bugs and seal entry points they may have used.

Early Summer (June-July): Adults feed and lay eggs on host plants. In gardens, monitor plants regularly, especially fruit trees, vegetables, and ornamentals. Report significant garden populations and document any crop damage.

Late Summer/Early Fall (August-September): Critical period for prevention. Bugs begin seeking overwintering sites as days shorten. Complete all exclusion work before this period. Use light management strategies (reducing exterior lighting or using yellow “bug lights”).

Fall (October-November): Peak home invasion season. This is when most homeowners encounter BMSB and when reporting is most common. Continue vacuuming indoor bugs and document large aggregations.

Winter (December-February): Monitoring indoor sheltered areas. Bugs remain inactive unless warmed. Occasional warm winter days may produce brief activity. Plan spring exclusion repairs during this period.

These timelines shift earlier in southern regions and later in northern areas, sometimes by several weeks. Local extension offices can provide regionally-adjusted calendars.

Non-Chemical Management Options for BMSB Control

Many homeowners prefer to avoid chemical interventions for stink bug management. These non-chemical approaches can be effective, especially when implemented consistently.

Here are non-chemical management options ranked by effectiveness:

1. Physical exclusion (Very effective) – Sealing entry points prevents indoor invasion. Use high-quality silicone caulk for cracks and gaps, install door sweeps, and repair damaged screens. This preventative approach offers the best long-term solution.
2. Vacuum removal (Very effective for indoor bugs) – Regular vacuuming with a sock insert trap effectively removes indoor bugs without crushing them. Dispose of collected bugs in soapy water.
3. Light management (Moderately effective) – Reducing outdoor lighting during evening hours in fall decreases attraction to buildings. Replace exterior white lights with yellow “bug lights” when possible.
4. Sticky traps (Moderately effective) – Commercial sticky traps with BMSB pheromone can capture adults. DIY sticky bands around tree trunks can capture nymphs.
5. Water traps (Somewhat effective) – A pan of soapy water placed beneath a light can trap bugs attracted to the light during evening hours.
6. Natural predator encouragement (Long-term benefit) – Birds, predatory insects, and some spiders will prey on BMSB. Maintain habitat diversity to support these natural enemies.

Combination approaches yield the best results. For example, pairing exclusion techniques with strategic vacuuming provides immediate relief and long-term prevention.

Many homeowners have success with simple trap designs using a desk lamp positioned above a pan of soapy water during evening hours. The light attracts the bugs, which then fall into the water.

BMSB Citizen Science: How Your Reports Contribute to Research and Management

Your brown marmorated stink bug reports do more than fulfill regulatory requirements. They contribute valuable data to research efforts aimed at understanding and managing this invasive pest.

Citizen-submitted reports have been instrumental in tracking the spread of BMSB across North America. Since its first detection in Pennsylvania in the late 1990s, public reporting has documented its expansion to 47 states, providing researchers with invaluable real-time distribution data.

These collective observations help scientists understand:

• Speed and patterns of geographic spread
• Seasonal activity timing in different regions
• Preferred host plants and habitats
• Building types and materials most vulnerable to invasion
• Effectiveness of various management strategies

Reporting data directly influences research priorities. For example, when citizen reports identified particular tree species as BMSB aggregation sites, researchers developed targeted monitoring for those locations.

Perhaps the most significant impact has been in biological control development. Citizen reports helped track where the samurai wasp (Trissolcus japonicus), a natural enemy of BMSB, had naturally established in the U.S. This information proved crucial for biological control programs now showing promise for long-term management.

By submitting accurate, detailed reports, you become part of a nationwide network of observers helping to address this invasive species challenge. Your individual report might be the first detection in a county, providing early warning that enables rapid response.

Common Questions About BMSB Reporting and Management

Do I need to report every single stink bug I find?
No, reporting thresholds vary by region. In areas with established populations, report only significant numbers (10+ bugs) or agricultural damage. In states where BMSB is newly detected, report even individual bugs, especially if found in a previously unreported county.

Will officials come to my home if I report BMSB?
Site visits are uncommon for residential reports in areas with established populations. Officials typically visit only for first county detections, unusually large infestations, or significant agricultural impacts. Your report information and photos are usually sufficient.

How do I tell if stink bugs are established on my property vs. just passing through?
Established populations show multiple life stages (adults and nymphs) during summer months and repeated seasonal patterns of activity. Finding only adult bugs in fall near your home typically indicates seasonal migration to overwintering sites rather than established breeding.

Are there penalties for not reporting in mandatory states?
While some states technically have regulations requiring reporting of invasive species, penalties are rarely enforced for homeowners. These requirements primarily target agricultural operations, nurseries, and commercial transporters.

Will reporting lead to mandatory treatment requirements?
For homeowners, no. Reporting typically results in information sharing and voluntary management recommendations. Mandatory treatments are exceedingly rare and would only apply in agricultural quarantine situations.

Do I need to collect specimens for verification?
Physical specimens are usually unnecessary if you provide clear photographs showing diagnostic features. Some states may request specimens for first county detections or unusual presentations. Check your state guidelines before collecting.

How long should I expect to wait for a response to my report?
Most reporting systems acknowledge receipt immediately through automated responses. Verification typically takes 3-7 business days, though high-priority reports (first county detections) may receive faster attention.

Should I report even if BMSB is common in my area?
Reports of unusually large populations or new behavior patterns remain valuable even in areas with established populations. These could indicate adaptation or changes in population dynamics worth investigating.

What if I’m not completely sure it’s BMSB?
Submit your report anyway with clear photos and note your uncertainty. Experts reviewing the report can provide correct identification, which helps both research efforts and your personal knowledge.

When to Seek Professional Help: Beyond DIY Management and Reporting

While many brown marmorated stink bug situations can be handled through reporting and DIY management, some scenarios warrant professional intervention.

Consider professional assistance when:

• You’ve found more than 100 bugs inside your home despite prevention efforts
• Bugs consistently reappear after vacuum removal
• You cannot identify or access entry points
• You have significant agricultural crops experiencing damage
• Your home has difficult-to-seal architectural features
• Physical limitations prevent you from implementing exclusion measures
• Multiple treatment attempts have failed to reduce numbers

When selecting a pest management professional, ask specifically about their BMSB experience. Request information about their exclusion services rather than focusing solely on chemical treatments. Qualified professionals should offer a thorough inspection to identify entry points before recommending treatments.

Expect to pay $150-300 for a comprehensive inspection and exclusion recommendation plan. Actual exclusion work costs vary widely depending on your home’s size and the number of entry points requiring sealing.

The most effective professional approaches combine exclusion services with targeted treatments of exterior entry points during fall migration periods rather than broad interior spraying. Ask specifically about Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches that focus on prevention.

After professional treatment, continue monitoring and maintain records of any bugs you find. This information helps evaluate treatment effectiveness and may be useful for your reporting.

Staying Updated: Resources for Current BMSB Information and Reporting Changes

Brown marmorated stink bug reporting requirements and management recommendations continue to evolve as research advances and distribution changes. These resources will help you stay current.

Official Monitoring Websites:

• StopBMSB.org – The national BMSB information clearinghouse maintained by the BMSB Working Group
• EDDMapS.org – Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System with current distribution maps
• Your state’s department of agriculture invasive species page
• Local university extension invasive species portals

Mobile Apps:

• EDDMapS – Standardized invasive species reporting
• iNaturalist – Identification assistance and reporting
• Bugwood – Invasive species reporting and information
• State-specific reporting apps (varies by region)

Email Alert Services:

• USDA APHIS Stakeholder Registry – Sign up for pest alerts
• Extension newsletters from your state university
• Master Gardener update networks

Social Media Accounts:

• Your state’s invasive species council
• Regional IPM centers
• University entomology departments

To verify information currency, always check publication or update dates on websites, and prioritize information from university extensions and government sources over general pest control sites. Look for citations of recent research in any management recommendations.

By staying informed through these resources and following the reporting guidance in this article, you’re contributing to the management of this significant invasive pest while protecting your own property from damage.