In Illinois, " pirate bugs "—specifically the ( Orius insidiosus
Let the pirates patrol, and put away the pesticides. pirate bugs illinois
Forced out of dry fields, the bugs move into residential backyards and gardens in search of food and moisture. In Illinois, " pirate bugs "—specifically the (
)—are a double-edged sword: they are elite pest controllers for farmers but become a painful nuisance for residents during the late summer and fall. While they don't feed on blood or transmit disease, their sharp, needle-like beaks deliver a "probe" that feels like a pinch, often leaving itchy red welts. often leaving itchy red welts.