Mainers have grown used to seeing all sorts of different wildlife. From moose on the loose to deer to sharks, we've all had our fair share of animals we've either sought out or tried to avoid at all costs. Most of these aren't terribly troublesome. Well, maybe we could have done without the shark sightings during the summer of 2020! But mostly, it's nice to know so many animals share the state with us. There's just one recent exception, though. Homes around Maine have been experiencing an invasion of one very strange bug.
Maine is beautiful. Full of gorgeous scenery and nature, there's pretty much no other place we'd rather be. Although, the Western Conifer Seed Bug has us second-guessing that choice these days.
This little critter has been in Maine for at least the last 15 years, but surprisingly many of us have never really noticed them.
These little creatures lay eggs outside in the trees, but they've been heading indoors as the weather becomes colder. The most unexpected thing about their seeming invasion is that they flatten their little bodies enough to fit through the smallest cracks in windows and doors.
And even scarier is that they often move in groups. So, if you've seen one you're likely to see more. In some cases, people in Maine are seeing swarms of them outside as they work on making their way indoors.
If they do happen to make their way into your house, beware! If you choose to squash these little bugs things are likely to get smelly!
Instead, consider trying to usher them outside. And the good news is that they're not harmful to humans, pets or even the trees they live in.
And, as the weather gets colder you'll see them less and less. The bad news? If they're here now, they've likely already laid eggs in nearby trees which means you can expect to welcome them back next year!
Have you has the Western Conifer Seed Bug in your home? How did you get them out? Let us know where you saw them so we can get a sense of just where in the state these are being found!
And for those with a sense of adventure, we've got a list of a few more bugs we'd like to avoid here! These 10 bugs found in Maine will send shivers down your spine.
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