Instead, they are thought to be from a new source that was accidentally introduced in New Orleans from an Asian freighter. Large numbers were found congregating on windows, doors, back porches and on the sunny sides of buildings in search of a place to hibernate. Another bug that caused residents to call for assistance was the Western Conifer Seed Bug. This bug feeds mainly on the seeds and developing cones of several species of conifers and their respective hybrids. It has been expanding its range eastward and was first detected in Pennsylvania in 1992.
Recent records suggest that interstate commerce has been a factor in extending the insect s range.
The western conifer seed bug has bothered people in homes, businesses and laboratories and becomes a nuisance when it enters these places in search of overwintering sites. Additionally, the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid has become a concern to many county residents. The most obvious evidence of this bug is the large masses of white filaments of wax produced by the females. Host plants are injured by the adelgids inserting their piercing-sucking mouthparts into the base of the needles and removing plant fluids. Moderate infestation may cause a reduction in tree health, while severe infestation may result in premature needle drop, reduced twig growth, dieback or death of trees.