Boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittatus) are seen from mid-summer through fall and occasionally in spring. Recognizable by their distinctive black and red markings, these insects often gather in abundance on the sunny sides of buildings. As temperatures drop, they seek shelter indoors, making them an unwelcome presence in homes. By following these tips on preventing and removing boxelder bugs, you’ll be sure to be free of these unwelcome visitors.
Understanding Boxelder Bugs
While they can be a nuisance, boxelder bugs are mostly harmless, causing no significant damage to plants or household items. Boxelder bugs are drawn to sunlight and warmth, leading them to gather on the sunny sides of buildings. Once inside, they may stain curtains and walls but will not bite or damage food and other household items. They primarily feed on boxelder seeds but can also reproduce on seeds from ash, elm, and maple trees.
Prevention and Removal Strategies
Preventing and removing boxelder bugs doesn’t need to be hard, follow these steps and you’ll ensure your property is free of them.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect the property for potential entry points and seal them. This includes caulking gaps around windows and doors, and any cracks in walls, siding, or foundations.
- Choose Trees Wisely: When planting shade trees, consider opting for species other than boxelder bugs to reduce the likelihood of attracting these bugs to the yard. Removing heavily infested boxelder trees or treating them with a registered insecticide in mid-summer can help control the bug population.
- Remove Seeds: Regularly clean up accumulations of boxelder, ash, elm, and maple seeds around the property. Removing these food sources can help decrease the bug population.
- Insecticides: For large groups of boxelder bugs on building exteriors, spraying with registered insecticides, insecticidal soap, or hot soapy water can be effective. Follow all safety guidelines and regulations when using chemical treatments.
- If boxelder bugs have already infiltrated a property, the most effective way to remove them is by vacuuming them. Make sure to empty the vacuum’s contents into a sealed bag immediately after to prevent any surviving bugs from escaping.
If boxelder bugs have already infiltrated a property, the most effective way to remove them is by vacuuming them. Make sure to empty the vacuum’s contents into a sealed bag immediately after to prevent any surviving bugs from escaping.
Cautions and Considerations when Preventing and Removing Boxelder Bugs
While removing boxelder bugs, keep the following considerations in mind:
- Avoid Killing Bugs in Wall Voids: If boxelder bugs have already entered wall voids, do not attempt to kill them there. Dead boxelder bugs can attract other pests, such as dermestid beetles (e.g., larder beetles, and carpet beetles), which can become an even bigger problem.
- Handle with Care: Boxelder bugs can release an unpleasant odor when crushed or disturbed. Handle them gently to avoid this issue.
Although boxelder bugs can be a nuisance, they are harmless. By following these strategies, you’ll be sure to prevent and effectively remove boxelder bugs. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to ensuring that boxelder bugs do not become a recurring problem in a living space. For maintenance assistance, check out Lake Point Property Management. Let us sweat the big stuff so you don’t have to.
