“Boxelder bugs, named for the maple and seed-bearing boxelder trees on which they feed and lay eggs during the warmer months, often become nuisances in the fall as they search for overwintering sites. They are most frequently seen congregating in warm spots before migrating indoors to get over winter in insulated cracks and crevices. During the change in season, they can become a nuisance to homeowners as they invade in large numbers,” states PestWorld.
Appearance
Boxelder Bugs have a somewhat-flattened and elongated oval body shape and are about ½ an inch long. They are black with orange or reddish markings on their back. They have two antennae with six legs.
Reside
They are native to the Western United States but can be located from eastern US, west to eastern Nevada and eastern Canada. They are located wherever boxelder trees are found.
Habits
Boxelder bugs congregate in large numbers on warm rocks, trees and buildings where the sun hits in the Fall. Then, the large masses migrate to nearby homes or buildings to settle in over the wintertime. They get in through small cracks and crevices in walls to insulate during cold temperatures.
Diet
These bugs eat mainly on boxelder tree seeds and the new developing foliage which discolors the leaves. They will also eat plum and apple tree fruits.
Harmful
When in large groups invading your home, these pests can become a significant nuisance. Their piercing-sucking mouthparts can puncture skin when handled which causes a slight irritation and produces a red spot like a mosquito bite. If crushed, they produce an unpleasant strong order and their feces can stain fabric.
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