Close up of a Boxelder bug. Interstate Pest Management serving Portland OR & Vancouver WA talks about 8 Facts Wikipedia Won’t Tell You about Boxelder Bugs.

Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs are a North American species of true bug, insects that have sucking mouths like cicadas and aphids.

 

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Description

 Size 1/2 in.
 Color Black with reddish-orange markings on their bodies
 Body Structure Flat, oval-shaped body with six legs and antennae that are half as long as the length of their body
 Characteristics Boxelder bugs are known to stick together and congregate in large groups. When they are looking for places to overwinter, expect to see more than a couple of these pests. They tend to settle and hide in small wall cracks to insulate themselves from cold temperatures, and emerge from hibernation in late March to early April.
 Habitat & Behavior Because they feed off particular species of trees, boxelder bugs are commonly found in the western United States. However, these bugs can also be found in the eastern states and Canada.

While these pests are generally found on trees, stones, shrubs, and wood in warmer months, they migrate to nearby buildings and homes by the masses to hibernate during winter months.
 Commonly Active Spring / Summer / Fall
 Risks of Infestations When boxelder bugs move inside of structures, they are primarily just a nuisance pest, however there are additional risks with having these bugs in your home including:

  • Their fecal material can cause stains on curtains, drapes, clothing, carpet, and other household materials.
  • When crushed, boxelder bugs can produce a strong, foul odor.
  • Dead boxelder bugs in wall voids or other hard to reach areas can attract beetles.

While boxelder bugs are not a health threat, these risks to your home and belongings will impact the comfort of your safe space. Don’t let that happen to you this winter!