Nigerian animal documentarian Mustapha Iskil Gbolahan, widely known as Arojinle, has issued a warning to the public against killing shield bugs, commonly referred to as stink bugs, using their bare hands. In a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, May 13, Arojinle explained that crushing these insects directly is inadvisable because they emit a potent, unpleasant odor when they feel threatened or are squashed.
Why You Should Avoid Crushing Shield Bugs
According to Arojinle, the strong scent released by shield bugs can also serve as a signal, attracting more stink bugs to your home. This warning comes as part of his ongoing efforts to educate the public about insect behavior and safety. The documentarian, who has a significant following on social media, emphasized that the odor is not only offensive but can lead to further infestation.
Expert Advice on Handling Shield Bugs
Arojinle, who is known for his expertise in animal documentation, recommends alternative methods for dealing with these pests, such as gently sweeping them away or using a container to relocate them outdoors. He stresses that direct hand contact should be avoided to prevent the release of the foul smell.
Ridwan Adeola Yusuf, a Current Affairs Editor at Legit.ng with over nine years of experience in journalism, reported on this development. Yusuf holds a Higher National Diploma in Mass Communication from the Polytechnic Ibadan and has previously worked with Africa Check, where he contributed to fact-checking research. He is also an active member of the Academic Excellence Initiative and completed the Google News Initiative Lab workshop in March 2024.
