Identifying Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are medium-sized insects with black bodies and reddish-orange markings along their wings. Adults are about ½ inch long and are easily identified by the red lines that form an X-shaped pattern on their backs. The younger stages are bright red and become darker as they develop. These insects are commonly found around boxelder and maple trees and may gather on the sunny sides of homes in the fall as they look for warm places to overwinter.
In winter, boxelder bugs stay inactive in sheltered spots such as attics, garages, wall voids, and other protected areas. Occasionally, they may move around indoors on warm or sunny days, but they do not bite, sting, or damage structures. They remain dormant until spring.
During spring, boxelder bugs emerge from their winter hiding places as temperatures warm. They gather on sunny areas of buildings and eventually move to nearby boxelder and maple trees to feed and reproduce.
Are boxelder bugs dangerous to pets or people?
Boxelder bugs do not bite, sting or carry diseases. They are mainly a nuisance when they enter homes in large numbers.
Boxelder Bug Diet
Boxelder bugs feed by piercing and sucking sap from the seed pods of boxelder trees and other related species. They may also occasionally feed on fruit trees, including apple cherry, plum and peach.
Do boxelder bugs harm trees?
Boxelder bugs only feed on seeds and leaves of boxelder, maple, and ash trees, leaving only minor cosmetic marks. They will not affect the tree’s health, growth, or structure.
Can boxelder bugs damage fruit?
Occasionally, they may feed on fruit trees such as apple cherry, plum or peach. However, this feeding is usually minimal and does not ruin the fruit or the tree.
How to Remove Boxelder Bugs
Vacuuming boxelder bugs as soon as you spot them is an effective way to keep them under control. Once you’ve vacuumed them up, dispose of the vacuum bag immediately, otherwise, the persistent red-and-black insects may crawl back out. Afterward, clean the vacuumed areas with soapy water to ensure any remaining bugs are removed.
How can I prevent them indoors?
Want to keep boxelder bugs out? Seal them out! Caulk tiny cracks, fill bigger gaps with copper mesh and spray foam, and check where pipes, wires, or cables enter your home. Repair or replace any damaged screens, make sure doors and garage strips fit snugly, and cover vents, chimneys, soffits, and weep holes with fine mesh. A few simple steps now can save you from a red-and-black invasion later!
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