Summer in New Zealand means high-risk season for Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) hitchhiking in packages, luggage, cargo and on people.

There have been fairly recent threats close to home - BMSB were found at the border by staff within a transitional facility in Christchurch, and after a number were found in Sydney late last year having smuggled themseves into the country on a freight container, the NSW Department of Primary Industries has called on residents to be extra vigilant for the bug and regularly inspect their vegetable and fruit gardens to limit the likelihood of spread.

It’s important that everyone understands the seriousness of a BMSB invasion, as it is not just a horticultural pest but a real lifestyle pest as well. Not only will the bugs ruin crops and gardens, they will also infest buildings and houses. BMSB likes to hide in dark spaces, cracks and crevices. Keep an eye out for them and if you think you’ve found anything unusual catch it, snap it, and report it to the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) on 0800 80 99 66.

Check out this video from the USA where the ever-expanding BMSB population is taking over lifestyles. Share the video with your friends and family as everyone will be affected by this pest if it establishes in New Zealand.