Twice Stabbed Stink Bug: Essential Facts and Tips for Your Garden

The Twice-Stabbed Stink Bug, scientifically known as Cosmopepla lintneriana (or its close relative Cosmopepla bimaculata), is an interesting and unique species of stink bug. Native to North America, these bugs can be found in various regions, including Illinois and New York. As part of the order Hemiptera, suborder Heteroptera, infraorder Pentatomomorpha, superfamily Pentatomoidea, subfamily Pentatominae, tribe Carpocorini, and genus Cosmopepla, these stink bugs possess fascinating traits and behaviors.

In appearance, Twice-Stabbed Stink Bugs have distinctive features, such as their black body with two red spots, which earned them their notable name. They primarily feed on plants and insects, benefiting the ecosystem by acting as natural predators for pests. This makes them valuable to the environment and agriculture, controlling the population of harmful insects.

As you explore more about these intriguing stink bugs, be aware of their significance and the role they play in maintaining the ecological balance. From their unique markings to their beneficial predatory behavior, the Twice-Stabbed Stink Bug is a fascinating species worth getting to know.

Identification

Color and Size

The Twice Stabbed Stink Bug, also known as the two-spotted stink bug, has a distinctive appearance. Its body is primarily black, with two contrasting red or orange spots on the scutellum, which is the large triangle shape on top of the thoracic segment.

These stink bugs vary in size, typically ranging from 14-17mm in length, which is comparable to the size of a U.S. dime.

Key Features

There are several distinguishing features that set the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug apart from other stink bugs:

• Black body with two contrasting red or orange spots on the scutellum
• Large, triangle-shaped scutellum with a rounded rear end
• Barrel-shaped eggs, about 1/20 inch in size

Adult stink bugs possess antennae with alternating light and dark bands on the last two segments. Their abdominal edges also display alternating broad light and dark bands source.

Synonyms and Common Names

The Twice Stabbed Stink Bug is known by several common names:

• Two-spotted Stink Bug
• Wee Harlequin Bug

These names all refer to the same species of stink bug, recognized for its black body with distinct red or orange spots on the scutellum source.

Habitat and Geographic Range

The Twice Stabbed Stink Bug, also known as Cosmopepla lintneriana, is commonly found throughout North America. This particular bug thrives in various habitats such as forests, gardens, and meadows. They’re quite adaptable and can be found in both urban and rural settings.

In the United States, you can find these bugs mainly in the eastern states and stretching to the western regions. They are most prevalent in Tennessee (TN) and its surrounding states, where the environment is suitable for their survival.

In Canada, the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug is also present, primarily in the southern parts where the climate is warmer and more conducive to their existence.

Some key features of the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug’s habitat preferences include:

• Preference for warm climates
• Adaptability to urban and rural environments
• Presence in forests, gardens, and meadows

Although the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug can be found across North America, their specific populations can vary depending on factors such as climate and availability of food. It’s essential to be aware of their preferred habitats when studying their distribution, as these factors can impact their overall geographic range.

Diet and Food Sources

The Twice Stabbed Stink Bug is a type of stink bug that feeds on various types of plants. They are known to have a diverse diet, which includes different parts of plants like fruits, vegetables, flowers, and even crops.

Some examples of their preferred food sources are:

• Plants: They can feed on a wide range of plants, both ornamental and agricultural.
• Fruit: Stink bugs can cause damage to fruits like apples, peaches, and grapes.
• Vegetables: They are also known to feed on vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and corn.
• Crops: Stink bugs can potentially harm crops, such as soybeans and cotton.

These bugs extract nutrients from plants by piercing the plant tissue with their long mouthparts called stylets. They then suck the sap or nectar from the plants, which can cause significant damage.

To protect your plants from stink bugs, it’s essential to be vigilant and monitor for any signs of infestation. If you notice stink bugs on your plants, consider applying appropriate pest control measures to minimize damage and keep your garden healthy.

In summary, the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug feeds on a variety of plants, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and crops. They can cause considerable damage by extracting sap and nectar from plants, so it’s crucial to monitor their presence and take action to protect your garden.

Behavior and Life Cycle

Seasonal Activities

Twice Stabbed Stink Bugs become active during warmer seasons. They typically start to emerge in spring and continue their life cycle throughout summer. In colder months, they seek out sheltered spots to overwinter.

Reproduction and Growth

These stink bugs reproduce through laying eggs. A female will lay clusters of eggs on host plants. Once the eggs hatch, small nymphs emerge, beginning their development. As they grow, they undergo several stages called instars before reaching adulthood.

Feeding Habits

Twice Stabbed Stink Bugs feed on various food sources, mainly plant-based. They use their piercing and sucking mouthparts to extract nutrients from the plants, which could cause harm to the host plant.

Remember to observe these bugs with care and avoid handling them, as their defensive secretions can be unpleasant.

The Stink Bug and Humans

Bug Entry and Wintering

The Twice-Stabbed Stink Bug often enters homes through small openings like windows, doors, eaves, or other entry points. They can also slip through gaps in siding, utility pipes, and chimneys. During winter, these bugs seek warm places to survive the cold temperatures. They often find their way into your home, hiding in walls or attics to avoid the chilly weather outside.

Preventing Infestations

To prevent stink bug infestations, you should:

• Seal off any gaps around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping.
• Inspect eaves, utility pipes, and chimneys for potential entry points and close them off.
• Consider putting mint or other strong-smelling plants near your home, as they can deter stink bugs from entering.

Natural Remedies

If you notice a stink bug infestation, there are several natural remedies you can use:

• DIY trap: Create a simple trap using a plastic bottle, soapy water, and a light source to lure the bugs.
• Insecticidal soap: A gentle insecticide option that can be sprayed on the bugs or their hiding spots.
• Garlic spray: A mixture of garlic and water can repel stink bugs.
• Essential oils: Some essential oils, like peppermint or lavender, can serve as a natural deterrent.

Effects of Infestations

Stink bug infestations can have several negative effects:

• Damage: These bugs can damage plants, flowers, and fruits in your garden.
• Odor: They emit an unpleasant smell when disturbed or crushed, hence their name.
• Pheromones: The bugs release pheromones that attract more stink bugs, potentially worsening the infestation.

To tackle an infestation, consider using a combination of the aforementioned prevention techniques and natural remedies. If the problem persists, you may need to contact an exterminator for professional assistance.

Stink Bug Relatives

Similar Species

In the world of stink bugs, there are several species that are quite similar to the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug. For example, the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) is a common insect pest that is often found on ornamental plants and various crops. Another example is the Two-Spotted Stink Bug, which is a predatory bug that helps control other pests.

Family and Order

The Twice Stabbed Stink Bug belongs to the Family Pentatomidae, a group of insects commonly known as “true bugs.” Within this family, there are many species, including BMSB and Two-Spotted Stink Bug, that share common characteristics.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The following characteristics can help you distinguish Twice Stabbed Stink Bug from its relatives:

• Size: They are smaller than BMSBs.
• Color: They have a distinctive black color with two red markings on their back, resembling stab wounds, hence the name “Twice Stabbed.”
• Body Shape: They have a shield-shaped body, which is typical of the Pentatomidae family.

Plant-host relationships

Among its stink bug relatives, the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug has a different relationship with plants. While pests like BMSB and others feed on plants, causing damage to crops and ornamentals, the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug is a predator that feeds on other insects. This makes it a helpful ally in controlling pests like cimex carnifex and some ornamental plant pests, such as aster-feeding bugs.

Additional Resources

Scientific Sources

There are numerous scientific sources available to study the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug, its behavior, and ways to control its population. For in-depth information, you can access research papers, articles, and expert opinions.

Recommended Readings

For a deeper understanding of stink bugs, including identification, lifecycle, and control methods, consider the following recommended readings:

• University of Maryland Extension’s Common Stink Bugs of the Mid-Atlantic.
• United States Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines on Brown Marmorated Stink Bug.

Extermination Services

When facing a stink bug infestation in your home or garden, hiring a exterminator may be an effective solution. Extermination services offer expertise and specialized equipment to tackle stink bug problems. Remember to verify their experience in handling stink bugs specifically.

DIY Tips

You can try DIY methods to control stink bug populations, such as:

• Vacuuming: Regularly vacuum your home, including potential hiding spaces like blinds or curtains.
• Sealing entry points: Close gaps and openings in your home to prevent stink bug entry.
• Garden maintenance: Maintain your garden by removing weeds or debris that may attract stink bugs.

Safety Measures

Take the safety measures below when dealing with stink bugs:

• Wear gloves: Stink bugs release an unpleasant odor when threatened or crushed.
• Do not use chemical insecticides indoors: Chemical solutions can be harmful to humans if not used properly.

Further Study

For those interested in further study on stink bugs, consider enrolling in entomology or pest management courses from reputed institutions. Online courses may offer flexibility and accessibility for your educational goals.

For Kids

Children can learn about stink bugs through age-appropriate materials, such as illustrated books and videos. Engaging content on stink bugs and other insects helps foster an early interest in science and the natural world.

Finding Help

Don’t hesitate to seek help if you are dealing with stink bug infestations. Reach out to local pest control professionals or ask for advice from university extension experts and researchers. They can offer guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Reader Emails

Over the years, our website, whatsthatbug.com has received hundreds of letters and some interesting images asking us about these insects. Scroll down to have a look at some of them.

Letter 1 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

colorful little bug
Location: Annaheim, Saskatchewan, Canada
March 28, 2012 5:45 am
hi, at work recently we found a small black and orange bug. it has an odd bell shaped pattern on its back and on its thorax (i think, its middle part) there are two eye spots. i thought it was looking like a cute little bug until i noticed its rather long and pointy mouth parts.
i’ve included some pics of him running around in the bottom of a styrofoam cup, and one pic of him on his back.
we are curious to find out just what kind of bug he is and would appreciate your input, thank you kindly.
Signature: Tim

Hi Tim,
Your Two Spotted Stink Bug is a predatory species, and it uses that “rather long and pointy mount” to suck the vital juices from its prey.  Though we do not recall receiving any reports of people being bitten by a Two Spotted Stink Bug, we believe a painful bite may result if it is carelessly handled.  Many Stink Bugs pass the winter by hibernating as adults, and that would explain its appearance early in the spring.  See BugGuide for additional information.

awesome, thank you so much for identifying it so quickly, i was completely off target and looking into assassin bugs instead of stink bugs, lol. everyone at work was interested to know just what kind of bug it was. it’s probably more common than we would think and just happened to notice this one.
thanks again for your prompt response, great site and keep up the good work!

Letter 2 – Twice-Stabbed Stink Bug

western manitoba – beetles mating on columbine
Wed, Jul 1, 2009 at 9:03 PM
Hello there. Could you help me identify these lovely bugs mating on some columbine in our Riding Mountain National Park official gardens. I took the photo just today – it’s July 1st.
Their lower backs seem to be silver or transparent.
Thank you so much for your time.
M.M.
Clear Lake, Manitoba – Riding Mountain National Park

Dear M.M.,
These are not mating beetles, but mating Twice-Stabbed Stink Bugs, Cosmopepla lintneriana.  According to BugGuide, it is “Formerly Cosmopepla bimaculata , and still listed that way by most guides.”  BugGuide also indicates:  “Adults suck plant juices from many different plants: thistles, mints, goldenrods, ragweeds, columbines.” The Columbine is our favorite flower, and we want to post your photo uncropped, but we are also cropping in closer to better showcase the Twice Stabbed Stink Bugs.

Update:  No Broken Promise
Subject: I was asked to be in your book, was it ever printed?
November 14, 2014 1:37 am
Hi there.  Several years ago I submitted a photo of two shield bugs mating on a clematis (in Manitoba), and in your id response you requested my photo for your book.  I provided you with my photo credit info.  I was never notified when it came out, and I’m wondering what happened?  Do the people featured get a free copy of the book at least, since we weren’t paid to be featured?
Thank you.
Signature: Maggie Mandarano

Subject: Sorry they were stink bugs, not shield bugs, and on columbine
November 14, 2014 1:49 am
Sorry, just found the original question I sent – got the bug and flower wrong, duh…
It was stink bugs, on a columbine.  Here’s the original header from the question.
western manitoba – beetles mating on columbine
Wed, Jul 1, 2009 at 9:03 PM
I hope I didnt come across as rude – that wasn’t my intention – just curious if my photo ever got printed.  Thank you kindly.
Signature: Maggie Mandarano

Dear Maggie,
Daniel’s book, The Curious World of Bugs, was indeed published in 2010, but a decision was made to opt out of using photographic illustrations like those in numerous guide books that are sold for identification purposes, and instead to use Nineteenth Century illustrations to give a more Victorian look to the book.  Our standard release on our submission form does indicate that WTB? can publish letters and submitted images on our site and any associated publications, and we did post your image of mating Twice Stabbed Stink Bugs, but the posting was online and not in print.

Letter 3 – Two Spotted Stink Bug from Canada

name that bug
Hey Bugman,
Found this guy in our house in southern Ontario, Canada in March. It’s been a mild winter. What’s that bug?
Thanks,
Mark
Rockwood, Ontario

Hi Mark,
This is a Stink Bug. We believe it is in the genus Perillus. We will try to get an exact species name by contacting Eric Eaton. Here is Eric’s input: ” Yes, it is a Perillus sp., not sure which one. Could even still be the two-spotted, I would bet they are highly variable. Do check on bugguide and see if we have an image that matches. If not, we might like this one, too. Eric”

Letter 4 – Twice-Stabbed Stink Bug

Twice-stabbing Stinkbug!
I wasn’t intimidated by the looks of this bug…. until I discovered the NAME! Ooooh! I was able to narrow the ID to "stinkbug" on your site, then located the species on Bugguide. As always…. my day isn’t complete until I browse your site… At least once, maybe twice. (but no stabbing) Thanks!
Jill (suburbs of Chicago)

Hi Jill,
We are sorry to inform you that your life might be incomplete today. We have been unable to post new submissions since yesterday, and we need some quality time with our web host to solve the problem. Sadly, it is Sunday and he might be taking the day off. Regardless, we will be posting your photo and letter and the soonest opportunity. Your Twice-Stabbed Stink Bug is a real looker.

Letter 5 – Twice Stabbed Stink Bug

Garden bug – on jacob’s ladder and columbine
These bugs are multiplying like crazy and were all over the plants. I must have killed dozens! Any ideas? Thanks,
Sharon

Hi Sharon,
While in Ohio last week, we noticed several of these diminutive Stink Bugs on mom’s columbine, and resolved to identify them when we returned to Los Angeles and internet access. We have been so busy trying to catch up on all of our emails that we hadn’t the time. Your letter provided us with the opportunity to identify the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug, Cosmopepla lintneriana, on BugGuide. Once we had a name, we were able to find a photo online on Dave’s Garden showing the Twice Stabbed Stink Bug on a columbine flower that give a good view of its tiny size.

Letter 6 – Two-Spotted Stink Bug

He’s pretty fancy
But what is he?
Any help is appreciated.
Thank you
Jo-Ann

Hi Jo-Ann,
You have a photo of a type of Shield Bug or Stink Bug from the Family Pentatomidae. Sorry I can’t tell you the exact species.

Ed. Note: Jo-Ann later wrote back to us that she located her Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus, on this website. The species has two color variations, light and dark, and is one of the predatory Stink Bugs which feeds on the dreaded insect pest, the Colorado Potato Beetle.

Letter 7 – Two-Spotted Stink Bug

A Bug in Ottawa
First time across the site but I’m impressed! Awesome! My father found this bug in our basement. I’ve seen a few of these before in our area (Ottawa, Ontario). I don’t mind beetles unless they’re harmful to trees. We know it’s not a pine beetle but could you determine what it is? Oh yeah, it’s about 1/4" to 3/8" long.
Greg
P.S. Sorry, I don’t have any pictures but I’ve see another beetle similar to this one but slightly skinnier but same length. Could you give some possibilities? I’ll try to get some pictures when they seem to come out in droves.

Hi Greg,
This is a predatory stink bug, the Two-Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus. We suspect, due to the inclusion of the word “droves”, that your unpictured insect is a Boxelder Bug.

Letter 8 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

What is this guy?
Hi there Bugman,
I ran across this charming fellow in my house today. Can you identify him? I have his mugshot attached. Thanks so much,
Susan

Hi Susan,
This is a Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus.

Letter 9 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Some kind of beetle?
Hi Folks,
This bug was found attracted to a light in January in Vermont! I’ve never seen one like this in the house & with very cold weather outside I’m guessing it’s been here awhile. Very interesting "bell" marking…any ideas? Take care,
Jim

Hi Jim,
This distinctively marked Hemipteran is a Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus. There are also other color patterns seen in this species.

Letter 10 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Whats that bug?
Hi Bugman,
I found this beetle sitting on a box beside me as I was watching TV. I think it probably came from my Christmas tree. It freaked me out at first but I refrained from squishing him because the orange markings were so interesting. 😉 I did decide to take him with me to the computer as I was trying to find out what type of beetle it was. After searching the internet for a while I could not identify the beetle, so I decided to make a bug home for him so I could show my kids. In the process of making the home he just took off and who knows if he will return or if I will every see him again? Thanks for any help!
Dan

Hi Dan,
This is not a beetle, but a Stink Bug in the genus Perillus, most likely the Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus. Many Stink Bugs, as well as other Hemipterans or True Bugs, seek shelter indoors as the weather cools.

Letter 11 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Black/yellow/orange beetle
January 27, 2010
this beetle mysteriously showed up in my water bottle(of all places). I live near Calgary, Alberta, Canada. As you can see in the pictures it is black and yellow, with a hint of orange on the back and an orange striped belly. I have never seen a beetle like this here before, and the only way I can figre it got in the house was I had a television delivered to me the other day and it could have came with it(where the tv came from I do not know).
Josh
Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Hi Josh,
This is an adult Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus.  Individuals of the species can exhibit variable coloration, most commonly with all of the white markings being red.  The Two Spotted Stink Bug is a beneficial predator, and according to BugGuide, it preys upon the Colorado Potato Beetle.  The range is much of the United States and parts of Canada, and since Stink Bugs often seek shelter indoors to hibernate, it is also a possibility that your individual originated in your own vicinity.

Thank you very much for the prompt response and information!  What a great website 🙂
Josh

Letter 12 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Red bug
Location: Quebec Canada
February 14, 2011 1:26 am
It’s the middle of winter and we haven’t even seen a single spider come out lately and here I see this little creepy crawler right in front of me. My first instinct is to yell and try to kill it but just as I am looking for something to hit it with, I realise it’s something i’ve never seen before with a distinct red and black pattern. I decided to trap it and try to take a picture since I’ve heard of this site. I;m wondering what this bug is!
Signature: Vanessa

Hi Vanessa,
This is a beneficial, predatory Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus.  Many Stink Bugs seek out homes in which to hibernate in areas where there is a severe winter.

Letter 13 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

White and black 6 legged small
Location: Colorado
August 22, 2011 12:40 pm
Aurora, co summer time
Signature: Pam

Hi Pam,
Despite your very blurry photo, we were able to make out enough detail to identify your Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus, by matching to a photo posted to BugGuide.  This variable species is sometimes black and red instead of black and white.  Most Stink Bugs feed on plants, but this is one of the beneficial predatory species.

Letter 14 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Subject: Curiosity about this beetle.
Location: Found in southerners michigan
March 22, 2014 11:07 am
I found a beetle at work today and after scouring the web to try to find its identification I turned up nothing. I work for a factory that gets parts in from over seas ( Taiwan, Japan, and China) but the chances of a bug surviving that trip is slim. We’ve found lots of dead ones but none alive and I am not sure if he was from around here and wandered in or if he came off a skid that cam in.
His bug is about a1/2in long and 1/4 inch wide.and has a unique black and red pattern on back and front.
The 3rd photo is kind of blurry but he has a thin white stripe on each of his legs
Signature: Please help

This is a Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus, a predatory species, and you can read more about it on the Stink Bugs of Kentucky page.

Letter 15 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Subject:  Idenify
Geographic location of the bug:  Denver
Date: 10/02/2017
Time: 06:03 PM EDT
Can you tell me what this is? I am in a hotel in Denver CO
How you want your letter signed:  Ann

Dear Ann,
This is a Two Spotted Stink Bug, as you can see by viewing this BugGuide image.  It is a beneficial predator, and according to BugGuide:  “each individual is capable of destroying an average of 231.5 Colorado potato beetle eggs during its nymphal development and 150 to 200 larvae during its lifetime.” 

Letter 16 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Subject:  What is this?
Geographic location of the bug:  North Dakota
Date: 12/16/2017
Time: 08:28 PM EDT
We found this bug in our dogs water dish. Can you please tell me what it might be?
How you want your letter signed:  Alisha

Dear Alisha,
This distinctively marked insect is a Two Spotted Stink Bug, which you can verify by comparing your individual to this BugGuide image.  According to BugGuide:  “originally a western species that spread eastward following its principal prey, the Colorado Potato Beetle” and “each individual is capable of destroying an average of 231.5 Colorado potato beetle eggs during its nymphal development and 150 to 200 larvae during its lifetime.”  We will be postdating your submission to go live to our site at the end of the month when our editorial staff will be taking a holiday.

Letter 17 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Subject:  Ornate white lined shield bug needs a name!
Geographic location of the bug:  Cheyenne, Wyoming
Date: 05/21/2018
Time: 01:27 PM EDT
Your letter to the bugman:  My friend sent me a picture of this shield bug.  However, I have never seen anything like it.  Moths, yes, but not a shield bug.
Could you please help me narrow down the shield bug identification?
Thank you!!
How you want your letter signed:  Fish Seal

Dear Fish Seal,
This is a Two Spotted Stink Bug, a species that is highly variable in color.  Some individuals are white like the one you sent us for identification, and some Two Spotted Stink Bugs are red in color.

Letter 18 – Two Spotted Stink Bug

Subject:  The things you find in vault toilets
Geographic location of the bug:  Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area – WY
Date: 08/10/2018
Time: 11:14 PM EDT
Your letter to the bugman:  I found this little guy tummy up next to the latrine, and I was pondering if it was a tick, so I flipped it over and discovered a beautiful little beetle instead. Too broad to bring up in a search for black and white beetles. Any ideas? It was about the size of well used pencil eraser….
Thanks,  as always,
How you want your letter signed:  Tina in Wyoming

Dear Tina in Wyoming,
You might have searched on the internet for an interminable amount of time for a “black and white beetle” because this is not a Beetle, but rather a True Bug.  Beetles and True Bugs have many diverging physical traits, but one of the easiest ways to distinguish them is by their mouths:  Beetles have mandibles for chewing, while True Bugs have a proboscis adapted for piercing and sucking.  The insect you have described as “beautiful” goes by the ignominious name Two Spotted Stink Bug, and individuals vary quite a bit in color, with some individuals having quite a bit of red (or orange or yellow) as well as black and white.  The Two Spotted Stink Bug is an important predator, and according to BugGuide:  “primarily preys on Colorado Potato Beetle and other chrysomelids ( but also on caterpillars)” and “each individual is capable of destroying an average of 231.5 Colorado potato beetle eggs during its nymphal development and 150 to 200 larvae during its lifetime,” though we don’t know how it is possible to destroy half an egg.

LOL, thank you for the information and the morning chuckle. One of my friends suggested it should be named

Letter 19 – Two Spotted Stink Bug from Canada

Subject: Beetle
Location: Alberta
February 23, 2014 1:14 pm
Hello I just found this beetle in my master washroom what is it? And should I be worried I have a 3 year old and I’m pregnant. Please let me know
Thank you
Signature: Joanna

Dear Joanna,
We are certain that being pregnant and having a three year old is cause enough to worry, you need not be troubled by this Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus. While this is a predatory species and it might bite if carelessly handled, it is not aggressive towards humans and the bite would cause little more than localized discomfort.  According to BugGuide:  “Bold pattern is distinctive, though color variable.”

Thank you:) I still hope I don’t find anymore. I assume it came through the sink or something.

When the weather cools, Stink Bugs sometimes enter homes through gaps in windows and other tiny spaces so they can hibernate.

Letter 20 – Two Spotted Stink Bug found Dead

Subject: Stinkbug
Location: New Jersey, USA
March 11, 2013 8:14 pm
This seems to be some type of stink bug but I don’t know what it does or why it looks like this but I found it dead on the floor this afternoon and want an explanation
Signature: Alex Bohonyi

Dear Alex,
We don’t know exactly what kind of an explanation you desire.  This is a Two Spotted Stink Bug, Perillus bioculatus, and we don’t know why it died.  Two Spotted Stink Bugs are a predatory species, and according to BugGuide:  “Predatory, including on such pest species as the Colorado Potato Beetle.”

Letter 21 – Two Spotted Stinkbug

What is this beetle
I was finally able to get a good picture of the mystery bug that my daughter found. Please give it a look. Again, it is about 1/4" long. We live in Maryland.
Thanks
Tara and Carol

Hi Tara and Carol,
This is a Two Spotted Stinkbug, Perillus bioculatus. It is one of the predatory Stinkbugs and it feeds on the larvae of the Colorado Potato Beetle as well as other insects. We found a site with more information.

Letter 22 – Unidentified Stink Bug Nymph

Subject: Beetle? Missouri
Location: Holts Summit, Missouri
June 5, 2017 11:02 am
Hi, I’ve asked several entomologists what this is and no one knows! Hoping for an ID, thanks! The beetle measured about 5/8 inch long and was found at the edge of a densely wooded area, central Missouri.
Signature: Pam Hackler

Dear Pam,
This is not a beetle.  This is an immature Stink Bug in the family Pentatomidae, but we have not had any luck identifying the species on BugGuide, nor did we find any matching images on the Missouri Botanical Gardens Stink Bug page.  Perhaps one of our readers will be able to provide a species name.