Boxelder Bugs
What do boxelder bugs look like?
Box elder bugs are around 1/2 inch long. Commonly mixed up with elm seed bugs. These insects are black with reddish or orange markings on their back. Adult boxelder bugs have a body shape that is a somewhat flattened with an elongated oval shape.
Are boxelder bugs dangerous?
These insects are a nuisance pest and not considered dangerous. They do not bite humans or harm the trees in which they feed on. The most unpleasant aspect of them is their sheer population size, the foul-smelling odor they release when threatened, the congregation of their droppings on upper areas of structures, and their ability to swarm onto people and their pets when the colony is disturbed.
What do boxelder bugs do?
Boxelder bugs cause nuisance problems by moving into buildings in summer and early autumn to gravitate towards sources of heat and to escape the incoming winter cold. Adult boxelder bugs emit a very unpleasant odor when they feel they are in danger (for example when they are touched).
What is the life cycle of an elm seed bug?
In the spring, adults will move from their overwintering habitats out into the landscape. Adults appear in late June or July and will persist until the fall. Periods of extremely high temperatures may trigger mass migrations of nymphs and adults to seek more favorable climates inside homes during the summer. Fortunately, there is only one generation produced each year. They do not reproduce indoors.
Where can I locate these bugs?
- Maple, Ash, and Boxelder trees
- Landscaping
- Exterior walls
- Door trim
- Window trim
- Soffits
What should I do?
Ensure the caulking around windows and door frames are in good condition with no gaps through the use of exclusion. Caulk and seal cracks in soffits, gas, electrical, and plumbing lines leading into the house. When these bugs infiltrate inside your home or business, resist the urge to squash them. Elect to vacuum them instead. Call the pros to get an effective maintenance plan started for your property.