Elm Seed Bugs
What do elm seed bugs look like?
Elm seed bugs are around 1/3 inch long, commonly misidentified as boxelder bugs.
Are dark red with a black triangular shape on their backs and a red belly. They have wings tucked under their backs. Half of their wings are a black membrane, while the other half are red and leathery. Their wings are dotted with white, red, and black dots. Younger elm seed bugs are smaller and brighter red in color.
Are elm seed 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 and the bitter smelling odor they release when threatened. Other facets of their infestation you will notice is 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 elm seed bugs do?
Elm seed bug 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 elm seed bugs emit a very unpleasant odor that is similar to an almond smell when they feel they are in danger.
What is the life cycle of an elm seed bug?
In the spring, adults will move from their overwintering habitats out into the landscape. Egg laying begins when elm trees begin to flower with eggs deposited on the elm flower cups. Egg laying can continue through June, so a large number of eggs may be present on the trees. Adults appear May or June and will be present 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?
- Female elm trees
- Landscaping
- Exterior walls
- Door trim
- Window trim
- Soffits
What should I do?
Remove elm trees from your yard when applicable. Ensure the caulking around windows and door frames are in good condition with no cracks through the use of exclusion. Caulk and seal gaps 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.