What IS That Smell?

Eds. Note: This article was first published in March 2012. With the White Bradford Pear trees once again blossoming across the region, we decided to post it again—especially for those wondering what that not so fresh spring scent is in the air.  

Area residents have noticed a distinct smell in the air.

And no, we’re not talking about the fresh scent of spring.

Patch readers have detected a fishy smell to the air similar to standing water or an ocean marsh.

The smell isn’t limited to this area, either. Our Patch colleagues from around the Pittsburgh region have reported pockets of stench from Verona to Wilkins Township.

So what is the mystery smell?

According to the folks at flowering White Bradford Pear trees are to blame. The ornamental trees feature clusters of lush white flowers, that unfortunately—when in bloom— smell like last night’s fish dinner.

Gretchen Moran, executive secretary for Cranberry Township, said the warmer the temperatures, the more the trees stink.

The pear trees are known for being ideal street trees because of their resistance to cold, disease, drought and car fumes.

The, um, fragrant flowering trees can be found in bloom all over the area right now.

Pee-yew!

What about you? Have you noticed a fishy scent in the air? Did you know it was coming from the blossoming pear trees? Or, like editor Jessica Sinichak, did you initially blame it on the manure being spread at area farms? Share your spring scent stories in the comment section below.

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