Boxelder Bugs: Everything To Know

Now that it is the cold season, everyone is trying their best to stay warm. Unfortunately, our little bug and insect friends are also trying to stay warm and you may see an increase in them around your buildings and houses. Are you tired of seeing those pesky little red and black bugs crawling all over your home? If so, you are not alone. Boxelder bugs are a common nuisance for many building and home owners, especially during the fall and winter months. These small insects may seem harmless, but they can quickly become a major annoyance if not dealt with properly. If you’re ready to say goodbye to boxelder bugs and take back control, it’s time to consider some serious pest control measures. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of boxelder bugs, the most effective ways to get rid of them for good as well as the best prevention tips for you.

Identifying Boxelder Bugs: Features and Habitats

Boxelder bugs are small insects that are black with red or orange markings on their backs, oval-flat shaped that can be about ½ inch long with six legs and two antennas. These bugs are commonly found in boxelder trees, hence their name, but they can also be found in maple and ash trees. During the summer, they feed on leaves and seeds of boxelder or their host trees, but as the weather gets cooler, they start seeking shelter and warmth. They migrate into buildings and houses to get away from the cold. Being able to identify these bugs and understand their habitats is crucial in effectively controlling their population and preventing infestations. 

The Impacts of Boxelder Bug Infestations

Boxelder bug infestations can have a significant impact on your home. These small insects have a tendency to congregate in large numbers, creating a nuisance for home and building owners. One of the most obvious impacts is their presence inside your home. Boxelder bugs can invade your living space, crawling on your walls, floors, and even your furniture. This can be extremely frustrating and make it difficult to relax in your own home. They usually don’t bite but in the chance that they do, it usually is a similar reaction as a mosquito bite, with a small red rash that can form. In addition to their presence, boxelder bugs can also leave behind stains and odors. When they are crushed or handled roughly, they produce a strong odor that can be quite unpleasant. Not only that, but their excrement can stain walls, curtains, and other surfaces. These stains can be difficult to remove and may require professional cleaning. They also produce a strong odor when they are crushed or handled roughly, which can cause problems. Overall, the impacts of a boxelder bug infestation can be frustrating, unsightly, and even damaging. That’s why it’s essential to take steps to prevent these bugs from entering your home in the first place and, if necessary, seek professional pest control help to effectively eliminate them. If you would like to take the step of ridding boxelder bugs of your home, visit out website and contact us today!

Prevention Methods: Keep Boxelder Bugs Away From Your Property

Boxelder bugs may be pesky, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take control and keep them away for good. Prevention is key when it comes to keeping these little critters at bay. Here are some effective methods to consider:

1. Seal up cracks and crevices: Boxelder bugs can enter your home through even the smallest openings. Take the time to inspect your home for any cracks or gaps in windows, doors, and foundation walls. Use a good quality caulk when repairing cracks.

2. Extra defense: You can choose to install door sweeps to add a line of defense against them. This will help prevent them from coming in through your doors.

3. Remove their habitat: Boxelder bugs are attracted to boxelder, maple, and ash trees. If you have these trees near your home, consider pruning them back to reduce their attractiveness to the bugs. Removing any fallen leaves or debris around your property can also help discourage them from settling in.

Home Remedies: What Not to Do with Boxelder Bugs

Avoid killing boxelder bugs in wall voids, as their dead bodies can attract demisted beetles. Attempting home remedies for bug infestations is not advised, as this may worsen the problem and incur unnecessary expenses from experimenting with different methods. If you are going to try your own home remedies, try not to use any chemicals as that can worsen your infestation problem and may make it harder for professional technicians if you do ever call them. It can be challenging to determine when to seek the help of a professional, but our team is here to assist you with making that decision.

When to Seek Professional Pest Control Help

While prevention methods can be effective in keeping boxelder bugs away from your property, there may come a time when you need to seek professional pest control help. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to bring in the experts:

1. Persistent infestations: If you’ve tried various prevention methods of your own knowledge and the boxelder bugs keep coming back, it’s a clear sign that the infestation is beyond your control. Professional pest control technicians have the knowledge and tools to tackle stubborn infestations effectively.

2. Large population size: Boxelder bugs tend to be in large numbers, and if you notice a significant increase in their population, it’s best to seek professional help. 

Boxelder Bugs Summary

Remember, dealing with boxelder bugs on your own can be challenging, especially if the infestation is severe. Nobody wants to have to deal with pest control in the fall and winter. Our professional pest control technicians have the expertise and experience to effectively eliminate the bugs and provide long-term solutions. If you need help with your box-elder bug infestation, fill out the contact form on our website! We strive to right the first time!