Dispelling St. Louis Pest Myths: What You Should Know
Posted by Mosquito Squad
October 27, 2025
The hot topic of pests breeds tons of misinformation, and with social media, these days myths spread almost as fast as bugs themselves.
From fall invaders sneaking indoors to fleas lurking in unexpected places, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Doing so will help you be better informed and prepared to keep your home and family defended against pests. Let’s list three pests and three myths that are pretty common among St. Louis area residents.
Myth 1: Stink Bugs Lay Eggs Indoors During Winter
The truth is stink bugs might creep into your home as the weather cools in late summer and early fall. But they’re not looking for an incubator. They are simply seeking a warm place to hunker down for winter. Stink bugs don’t reproduce indoors over the winter. In fact, stink bugs go into a sort of hibernation state – called diapause, which means they’re conserving all energy until it’s time to emerge in the spring. If you find them in your home, rest assured they’re not there to build future generations of stink bugs in your attic or behind your walls. But they’re still a nuisance!
Myth 2: Indoor Pets Are Safe from Fleas
If only! But the truth is that even if your dog or cat never steps a paw outdoors, they are not immune to fleas. Fleas can hitch a ride inside your house on your clothing, shoes, or even through other household pets that do spend time outdoors. Once indoors, fleas can proliferate at truly alarming rates, laying their eggs on your pet or even in your carpet. And fleas don’t just make you and your pets itchy and uncomfortable. They can make you sick. They are responsible for the transmission of a number of illnesses, including plague and typhus.
Myth 3: Boxelder Bugs Have Venomous Bites
Boxelder bugs do look intimidating, it’s true – especially when they gather in large swarms on the sunny side of your house in the fall. However, contrary to appearances, boxelder bugs are actually harmless. They don’t have venomous bites – they don’t even bite at all. Or sting, in fact! The only real crime of boxelder bugs is being a nuisance, leaving behind stains on walls, draperies, and furniture if crushed indoors. Boxelder bugs, like stink bugs tend to show up in large numbers, which can make home and business owners feel very stressed out. Keeping them out to begin with is the winning mindset against these pests.
What Can Be Done About Stink Bugs, Fleas, and Boxelder Bugs?
We’re glad you asked! Mosquito Squad of Greater St. Louis offers truly effective outdoor pest control solutions for all three pests – and many more! At Mosquito Squad, we know that your best bet in preventing indoor pest infestations is hitting them outdoors before they have a chance to enter.
Search for St. Louis pest control and call Mosquito Squad!
Don’t suffer outdoor pests in your backyard. Mosquito Squad provides fast-acting Saint Louis pest control. Schedule your free pest assessment and quote by calling (314) 582-3980 or filling out our online form.
