It’s Getting Colder In Illinois, And These Bugs Want In Your Home

Okay, maybe the bugs aren't quite as large as the photo might suggest, but my "How To Add Hyperbolic Photos To Your Internet Posts" handbook said that these would work.

I wish I had saved the video from the time my wife set up a video camera to record herself in a battle to the death with a centipede on our basement wall. I was out of town, and she wanted video proof to back up her claims of a legendary throw-down with the bloodthirsty creature. A woman with a skillet will have to suffice for illustration.

This woman knows. Why use just one hand for bug-killing when you can use them both?

It's Fall, And All Sorts Of Creepy-Crawlies Are Looking For A Warm Place To Spend The Winter

As cold as it gets here in the Rockford area, no self-respecting bug wants to get caught outside between now and March. So, they're looking to go rent-free for a few months at your place. Some of them will go completely unnoticed in your home, while others have a tendency to make themselves known.

Here Are The Five Or So Bugs Who Want In Your Northern Illinois Home

Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs. They're harmless, but you'll be sorry if you squish them.

Asian Lady Beetles. They're great when they're outside being beneficial to us by eating aphids and other pests. Inside, in groups, they can let off a very bad odor, and stain things when you smash them.

Western Conifer Seed Bugs. These guys are pretty much exactly like a stinkbug, except they can bite. Luckily, they're really slow-moving and are no match for your vacuum.

Boxelder (or, Box Elder) Bugs. They're pretty cool for a bug. They don't bite, they don't chew on your stuff. They're in your house for the warmth and shelter. They will stain walls if you smash them, so go with the vacuum.

Millipedes, Centipedes, and Sowbugs. They're great when they're outside doing what they're supposed to do (consuming decaying organic matter), but inside is a different story. They're harmless, but they do seem to provoke a primal reaction in many people.