Brown marmorated stink bug

What does Brown marmorated stink bug look like?

A shield-shaped bug about 1.7 cm long, mottled brown above. The giveaways are the alternating light-and-dark bands on the last two antenna segments and along the exposed edge of the abdomen.

Is Brown marmorated stink bug dangerous?

Harmless to people — it doesn't bite, sting, or damage the house. It just gathers indoors in autumn to overwinter and releases a pungent, cilantro-like smell when crushed or alarmed.

Commonly confused with

• Native stink bugs: lack the banded antennae
• Boxelder bug: black with red lines, not brown

What should I do about Brown marmorated stink bug?

Vacuum them up rather than squashing (to avoid the smell), and seal gaps around windows, doors and vents to keep them out.