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Kudzu Bug

Actual Size: 3.5 mm to 6 mm

Characteristics: Olive green with brown speckles.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Yes, and they are good fliers.

Habitat: Especially attracted to the color white, these bugs will congregate in gaps under the bark of trees, gaps under the siding of homes, and higher elevations, such as the fascia boards and gutters on the edges of homes.

Habits:

  • Invasive exotic pest of soybeans.
  • Emits a potent odor when crushed or disturbed.
  • High numbers congregate in the fall on the sunny side of structures.

Kudzu Bugs in Virginia

The kudzu bug is an invasive exotic pest of soybeans and has been present in the southeastern United States since 2009. It has quickly become established as a severe economic pest of soybean in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Alabama. The kudzu bug is a nuisance pest to homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts during early spring and the fall. Kudzu bugs are inactive during the winter months and seek overwintering sites in the fall.

Kudzu Bug Habitat

Outdoors, kudzu bugs will congregate in gaps under the bark of trees, gaps under the siding of homes, and higher elevations, such as the fascia boards and gutters on the edges of homes. Kudzu bugs are attracted to light-colored surfaces and are especially fond of the color white. They will congregate on the white siding of a house, a white car, or a white t-white shirt. In early fall, kudzu bugs will often congregate on light-colored exterior walls of structures, then move into gaps and cracks seeking shelter and warmth in which to overwinter.

Kudzu Bug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Kudzu bugs do not bite and are not harmful to humans, but when crushed or agitated, they emit a potent odor similar to the brown marmorated stink bug. Additionally, like stink bugs and boxelder bugs, the kudzu bug can become an annoying pest for homeowners in the fall. They will congregate in large numbers on the sunny side of structures to warm themselves and may find their way indoors through cracks and crevices. Once inside, however, they are unable to feed or reproduce and will exit structures when the weather warms up in spring.  If you are dealing with a kudzu bug issue on your property, contact your local exterminators.