Boxelder bugs are a common nuisance pest that can invade homes in large numbers, particularly during the fall. These insects are attracted to the seeds of boxelder trees, and they can often be found congregating around these trees or on the sides of buildings. While boxelder bugs are not known to transmit diseases, they can be a nuisance and can cause damage to plants.

Identification

Boxelder bugs are medium-sized insects with black bodies and red and orange markings. They have six legs and two antennae, and their wings are folded flat over their backs. Boxelder bugs are often mistaken for ladybugs, but they can be distinguished by their larger size and their red and orange markings.

Prevention

The best way to get rid of boxelder bugs is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Here are a few tips for preventing boxelder bugs:

Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors. This will help to prevent boxelder bugs from entering your home through small openings.
Install screens on windows and doors. This will help to keep boxelder bugs out of your home, even if they do manage to get inside.
Move firewood away from your home. Boxelder bugs are attracted to firewood, so moving it away from your home will help to reduce the number of bugs that are attracted to your property.
Keep your yard clean of debris. Debris provides shelter for boxelder bugs, so keeping your yard clean will help to reduce the number of bugs that are able to survive on your property.
Cut down boxelder trees. If you have a boxelder tree on your property, cutting it down will help to eliminate the source of the problem.

Treatment

If boxelder bugs have already invaded your home, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them.

Vacuum boxelder bugs. This is the most effective way to remove boxelder bugs from your home. Simply vacuum up the bugs and dispose of them in a sealed bag.
Spray boxelder bugs with insecticidal soap. Insecticidal soap is a safe and effective way to kill boxelder bugs. Simply spray the bugs with the soap and allow it to dry.
Use a professional pest control service. If you are unable to get rid of boxelder bugs on your own, you can contact a professional pest control service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How can I tell if I have boxelder bugs?

A: Boxelder bugs are medium-sized insects with black bodies and red and orange markings. They have six legs and two antennae, and their wings are folded flat over their backs.

Q: Are boxelder bugs harmful?

A: Boxelder bugs are not known to transmit diseases, but they can be a nuisance and can cause damage to plants.

Q: What is the best way to get rid of boxelder bugs?

A: The best way to get rid of boxelder bugs is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. You can do this by sealing cracks and gaps around windows and doors, installing screens on windows and doors, moving firewood away from your home, keeping your yard clean of debris, and cutting down boxelder trees.

Q: What should I do if I have boxelder bugs in my home?

A: If you have boxelder bugs in your home, you can vacuum them up, spray them with insecticidal soap, or contact a professional pest control service.

Comparison of Boxelder Bug Removal Methods

Method	Effectiveness	Safety	Cost
Vacuuming	High	High	Low
Insecticidal soap	Moderate	Moderate	Low
Professional pest control	High	Low	High

Table of Contents

Where Do Boxelder Bugs Live?

Boxelder bugs are commonly found in North America, particularly in the northern United States and southern Canada. They are also found in parts of Europe and Asia. These bugs prefer warm climates and humid environments, and they are most active during the spring and fall. Boxelder bugs are typically found in or near boxelder trees, as they feed on the seeds and leaves of these trees. They may also be found in homes and other buildings, particularly during the winter months when they seek shelter from the cold.

What Do Boxelder Bugs Eat?

Boxelder bugs are sap-feeders that primarily feed on the leaves, stems, and fruits of boxelder trees. They also feed on other maple species, including silver maple, red maple, and sugar maple. In addition to trees, boxelder bugs can also feed on ash, buckeye, elm, horsechestnut, lilac, oak, and plum trees. They can also be found feeding on shrubs, flowers, and various types of fruit, including apples, grapes, peaches, and raspberries.

Are Boxelder Bugs Dangerous?

Boxelder bugs, despite their nuisance, are generally not considered dangerous. They do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases to humans or pets. However, they can be a source of irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. Boxelder bugs release a foul-smelling odor when crushed, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Additionally, their feces can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

What Attracts Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs are primarily attracted to the seeds and female reproductive structures (pistillate samaras) of boxelder trees (Acer negundo). They also feed on the sap of these trees and other species of maple. In autumn months, when temperatures drop, boxelder bugs seek out sheltered places to overwinter, such as homes, sheds, and other buildings. They may be attracted to light, so they are often seen around windows and doors.

What Boxelder Bugs are Attracted To

Boxelder bugs are mainly drawn to the following attractants:

Sunlight: They are heliotropic, meaning they are attracted to areas with high sunlight exposure.
Warmth: Boxelder bugs prefer warm and sheltered environments, such as the sunny side of buildings or houses.
Food sources: They feed on the seeds of boxelder trees, maple trees, and other related species. They may also consume overripe fruits, decaying vegetation, and occasionally small insects.
Moisture: Boxelder bugs require access to water sources, such as puddles or damp areas, for survival.
Overwintering sites: In the fall, boxelder bugs seek out sheltered areas to overwinter, such as cracks in buildings, attics, and woodpiles.

Boxelder Bugs in the Home

Boxelder bugs are common household pests during the fall months. They are attracted to homes by the warmth and shelter they provide. Once inside, they can become a nuisance as they crawl around on walls, ceilings, and furniture. Boxelder bugs do not bite or spread disease, but they can leave behind stains if they are crushed.

To prevent boxelder bugs from entering your home, seal up any cracks or holes in your exterior walls and foundation. You can also install screens on your windows and doors. If boxelder bugs do get into your home, you can vacuum them up or use a broom to sweep them up and dispose of them.

Boxelder Bugs in the House

Boxelder bugs are common pests that can invade homes during the fall and winter months in search of warmth. They are typically harmless but can be a nuisance when they gather in large numbers. These bugs can enter through cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and pipes.

Prevention:

Seal all entry points to prevent bugs from entering.
Use weatherstripping around doors and windows.
Install screens on all open windows and vents.
Trim trees and shrubs away from the house to reduce hiding places.

Removal:

Vacuum up bugs using a vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool.
Use a broom or brush to gently sweep them outdoors.
Spray insects directly with insecticidal soap or a natural solution made from vinegar and water (equal parts).
Avoid using strong chemical insecticides, as they can harm beneficial insects and pets.

Boxelder Bug Infestations

Boxelder bugs are common pests that can infest homes during the fall and winter. They are typically found on the sunny side of buildings, where they congregate in large numbers to seek shelter from the cold. Boxelder bugs do not bite or sting humans, but they can be a nuisance when they invade homes in large numbers.

Prevention:

To prevent boxelder bug infestations, seal any cracks or openings around windows, doors, and pipes. Keep firewood away from the house, as it can attract boxelder bugs.

Treatment:

If boxelder bugs do infest your home, there are several methods you can use to get rid of them:

Vacuuming: Vacuum up bugs on surfaces, but be sure to empty the vacuum bag immediately afterward.
Insecticide: Apply an insecticidal dust or spray around windows, doors, and other entry points. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Traps: Place shallow dishes filled with soapy water near entry points. The bugs will fall into the water and drown.
Exclusion: Install screens over windows and doors to keep bugs out.

How to Keep Boxelder Bugs Out of House

Boxelder bugs are a common pest in North America. They are attracted to homes that offer them warmth and shelter during the winter months. There are several things you can do to keep boxelder bugs out of your house.

Seal up cracks and holes in your foundation and walls. This will prevent boxelder bugs from entering your home in the first place.
Install screens on your windows and doors. This will keep boxelder bugs from getting inside even if they do find a way into your home.
Keep your home clean and free of clutter. Boxelder bugs are attracted to clutter, so keeping your home clean will help to deter them.
Vacuum your floors and carpets regularly. This will remove any boxelder bugs that may have gotten inside.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. This will help to trap boxelder bugs and prevent them from spreading throughout your home.
Apply a residual insecticide to the outside of your home. This will kill any boxelder bugs that come into contact with it.
Hire a professional pest control company. A professional pest control company can help you to get rid of boxelder bugs and keep them from coming back.