As summer temperatures rise, leaf-footed bugs are becoming a common sight around homes and gardens. With their long antennae, shield-shaped bodies, and widened back legs, these large insects often startle people when spotted indoors or on porch screens.
Despite clickbait claims, these bugs do not sting or bite humans. They lack stingers entirely and use their needle-like mouthparts only to pierce plants, fruits, and seeds to drink plant juices.
While they are completely harmless to people and pets, bothering them can lead to a smelly surprise. Similar to stink bugs, leaf-footed bugs release a foul odor as a defense mechanism when felt threatened or crushed.
If you find one inside, avoid squishing it to prevent the odor from spreading. Simply scoop the bug up gently using a piece of paper or tissue and release it outside, while sealing cracks around windows to keep them outdoors.
