The leaf-footed bug is part of the Coriedae family which is predominantly made up of sap-sucking insects. They are also referred to as squash bugs and twig-wilters or tip-wilters in certain regions due to their effect on squash plants and twigs. There are about 1,800 species in the world but only 80 are found in the U.S., mostly in the south, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Other varieties include the Giant leaf-footed bug (Acgiantanthocephala declivis) and the Eastern leaf-footed bug (Leptoglossus phyllopus).

What do leaf-footed bugs look like?

The leaf-footed bug is literally named for its hind legs that resemble the shape of a leaf. They can grow up to 20mm long and are usually brown in color. The upper abdomen is more yellow or light orange with five crisscross black patches that can be seen when the insect is flying. Leaf-footed bugs can be mistaken for bumblebees because they follow a similar flight pattern and emit a loud buzzing sound. The Giant leaf-footed bug can grow up to almost an inch and a half long, and the Eastern leaf-footed bug can get up to about ¾” long.

How long do leaf-footed bugs live?

Like many insects, leaf-footed bugs go through three stages of life: egg, nymph, and adult. Adult females lay eggs on plant stems and leaves that will hatch into nymphs after about five to seven days. The young do not have wings yet but will molt several times over the next five to six weeks as they continue to grow and develop into an adult. As an adult, the insects will mate and continue the cycle.

Leaf-footed bugs typically live for around six to 12 months, depending on environmental conditions and the availability of food sources. Adults are capable of overwintering, but most will die in extreme cold temperatures. A mild winter can lead to bigger outbreaks since the adults are able to survive and reproduce uninterrupted.

How leaf-footed bugs can enter your home

A variety of leaf-footed bugs may migrate into homes seeking a spot to overwinter. In most cases, the number of bugs is small, but on occasion, a single home or building may become particularly attractive to these bugs. Anything from a crack in a door or window frame to a damaged screen and open vent can become an entrance for leaf-footed bugs.

Are leaf-footed bugs dangerous?

Leaf-footed bugs can be intimidating at first, but they don’t harm humans or animals, and they aren’t known to bite. A large infestation of leaf-footed bugs can do extensive damage to crops and plants, but they usually come in smaller numbers and will probably only cause minor, cosmetic damage. They are most attracted to nut and fruit-bearing plants like pistachios, pomegranates, and citrus.

Their main role in nature is to become food for other animals, such as birds, reptiles, mammals, and fish. When crushed, they release a strong, unpleasant odor, like stink bugs.

How to help get rid of leaf-footed bugs

Once inside walls, leaf-footed bugs may be difficult, if not impossible, to totally eliminate without the help of a professional. Prevention is the best DIY strategy. Seal exterior cracks or holes on the home or building’s exterior. Equip vents with tight-fitting insect screens. If leaf-footed bugs are already inside walls, sealing cracks around the windows and inside the doorframes can deny the bugs access to the interior part of the structure. Where large numbers are entering an attic or false ceiling, a pest professional may place an insect light trap in the space to capture most of the bugs before they can enter the rooms below.