Why do stinkbugs stink?

Bugs, Snails, Worms

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by Mya Kagan (whyzz writer) >> more about the author

Peeeew! Have you ever found a stinkbug in your room and tried to relocate the little critter back to the yard, only to discover that it thanked you by leaving behind a nasty smell?? Why do stinkbugs stink?!

The “stinkbug” is the informal name given to insects from the scientific order Heteroptera. Not all stinkbugs look exactly alike, but most are small (less than half an inch long), oval in shape or triangular, and a green, brown, or shiny color.

The reason why stinkbugs release that infamous stinky smell is that it’s their way of protecting themselves. Most of the time, a stinkbug won’t emit its stink unless it feels threatened, such as when you try to touch or move it. – The stinky smell is the stinkbug’s way of saying “step away!”

Self-Defense!

What are some other animals you’ve learned about who have forms of self-defense similar to stinkbugs?

One great example is the skunk! Another good example is the firefly. Did you know that the chemical which makes fireflies glow tastes really yucky to any animal who tries to eat them? When a firefly lights up, it’s a signal to its predators to indicate “Stay away, I taste bad!”

Posted by Loop9012 on 2011-02-21 16:57:59

My son (5 y.o.) says of your Exploration... "Another bug that defends itself is bees and their stingers."