Boxelder Bugs
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Boxelder Bug Control Services In Central Wisconsin
What do boxelder bugs look like?
Boxelder bugs are black with reddish or orange markings on their back. Adult boxelder bugs have a body shape that is a somewhat-flattened and elongated oval and is about half an inch long. They have six legs and two antennae that are typically half of their body length. Nymphs look similar to adults but lack wings and are bright red in color.
Signs of a boxelder bug infestation
Boxelder bugs generally become a problem when they invade homes, sheds, and garages in the fall and when they emerge in the spring. Like many overwintering pests, homeowners may see evidence of these bugs as the winter ends and when they leave their overwintering site to go back outdoors in the spring.
Seasonal habits
Spring through summer
In Wisconsin, its emerge during spring as the weather starts to warm up.
- Adults feed on plants and seeds on the ground during spring and early summer. They begin mating a couple of weeks after they start feeding.
- Starting in mid-July, they move to female seed-bearing boxelder trees where they lay eggs on trunks, branches, and leaves. They are rarely found on male boxelder trees.
- It may also feed on maple or ash trees. There is no noticeable feeding injury to these trees.
- During years of high populations, you may find nymphs on the ground or in gardens feeding throughout the summer.
Late summer through fall
- Boxelder bugs start to leave the trees where they were feeding to find protected areas for the winter. Adult boxelder bugs can fly several blocks and may travel as far as two miles.
- Although nymphs may be present in the fall, only fully grown adults survive the winter.
- It like warm areas and are attracted to buildings with a large southern or western exposure.
- Buildings standing taller than surrounding structures or standing alone on flat ground can also attract large numbers of it. The color of the building doesn’t matter.
- As the weather cools, it push into cracks and spaces around homes. They are often found inside around windows.
- They are active until it becomes cold.
- Some boxelder bugs end up in sheltered areas in walls, attics, and other places inside where they stay until it warms up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Signs of a boxelder bug infestation may include seeing large numbers of boxelder bugs in or around your home, noticing stains or discoloration caused by their excrement, and experiencing a musty odor.
Boxelder bugs are not dangerous to humans and do not bite or sting.
Effective boxelder bug treatments may include using insecticide sprays or dusts, as well as sealing cracks and gaps in walls and floors to prevent bugs from entering your home. It’s best to consult with a pest control professional for the most effective treatment plan
To prevent boxelder bugs from entering your home, seal any cracks or gaps in walls or floors, eliminate sources of moisture, and remove any boxelder or maple trees near your home.
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