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Is this a kissing bug #926824

Asked March 26, 2026, 2:05 PM EDT

Our cat brought us this bug, literally 2 days after we saw an article about kissing bugs and Chagas disease. We looked on line and it looks like a kissing bug but also like other types of bugs. Can you identify it for us and if it is a kissing bug, tell us what to do and how to eliminate others. Thank you in advance

Baltimore County Maryland

Expert Response

No, this is not a Kissing Bug, whose color and pattern are different from the species pictured. You can learn more about that insect (or group of insects, as several species are called "kissing bugs") on the linked page.

The insect pictured is a Western Conifer Seed Bug. They are native in the Western U.S. but are found across Maryland and other areas in the East, although they are not considered invasive here. They do not bite people to feed and are harmless if found. This particular individual seems to have an egg laid on it (the white object on its head) from a parasitic insect (likely a tachinid fly species) that helps to control other insects we consider pests, so they are beneficial to have around in the landscape.

A variety of stink bugs and their relatives overwinter as adults in sheltered areas, which can include inside our homes or buildings if they can find a way in via access points like cracks in exterior walls, gaps around pipe entry points, vent covers, etc. in exterior walls, torn window screening, worn-down door weather-stripping, and so forth. They are only a nuisance when they wind-up inside, and they try to leave on their own as the weather warms and the days lengthen, when they try to get back outside. Insects trapped indoors often are drawn to light sources like windows and lamps since it would typically be a way out of an enclosed space if they were out in nature.

Miri
Thank you Miri.
You were extremely helpful, and so quick to reply!

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 26, 2026, at 2:44 PM, Ask Extension wrote:


The Question Asker Replied March 26, 2026, 3:20 PM EDT

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