Low Incidence of Avian Predation on the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), in Southeastern Orchard Systems
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Insectivorous birds, including Northern cardinals, Tufted titmice, and Carolina wrens, were found to consume the invasive brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys). This study suggests birds may offer natural biological control for this significant agricultural pest.
Area Of Science
- Ecology
- Entomology
- Ornithology
Background
- The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) is a destructive invasive pest in agricultural systems.
- Insectivorous birds are potential biological control agents for invasive insect pests.
Purpose Of The Study
- To investigate the role of insectivorous birds in controlling brown marmorated stink bug populations in agricultural settings.
- To determine if avian predation contributes to the biological control of Halyomorpha halys.
Main Methods
- Monitoring of Halyomorpha halys populations using pheromone-baited traps in forest margins of orchards.
- Mist-netting of birds and collection of avian fecal samples for molecular gut content analysis.
- Screening of 257 fecal samples from 19 bird species for Halyomorpha halys DNA.
Main Results
- Evidence of Halyomorpha halys consumption was found in four birds across three species: Northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), Tufted titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor), and Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus).
- Halyomorpha halys populations in traps increased over time, irrespective of orchard type.
- The observed incidence of predation may be an underestimate due to sampling methodology.
Conclusions
- Insectivorous birds, specifically Northern cardinals, Tufted titmice, and Carolina wrens, consume the brown marmorated stink bug.
- Birds represent a component of the food web that may contribute to the biological control of Halyomorpha halys.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the ecosystem services provided by birds in pest management, including for Halyomorpha halys and other pests.

