What Do Boxelder Bugs Look Like?
Boxelder bugs are black insects with red or orange markings on their wings and abdomen. They are about half an inch long and have a flat, elongated, oval body shape, resembling sunflower seeds. They have red eyes, six legs, and long antennae. Nymphs look similar to adults but lack wings and are bright red in color.
What are the Signs of a Boxelder Bug Infestation?
Boxelder bugs are overwintering pests that seek shelter indoors during the colder months. They gather in large numbers on the sunny exterior walls of homes and make their way inside through cracks around doors and windows. Once inside, they hibernate in attics, walls, and closets for the winter. Piles of dead boxelder bugs may also collect in light fixtures and around windows.
Boxelder Bug Control in Milwaukee, WI
Get rid of boxelder bugs with our professional pest control services! Advanced Wildlife and Pest Control offers boxelder bug control and extermination in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin. Our certified pest exterminators provide reliable, long-lasting solutions to eliminate boxelder bugs from your home and business. Our seasonal beetle treatments in fall and spring will ensure your property remains pest-free throughout the year.
How Can I Prevent Boxelder Bugs?
The following prevention tips will help deter boxelder bugs from your property.
- Repair or replace torn window or door screens.
- Seal cracks around windows, doors, siding, and utility pipes.
- Place weather stripping around windows and doors.
- DON’T SQUISH!!! Use a vacuum to remove live or dead boxelder bugs!
Are Boxelder Bugs Harmful?
Boxelder bugs are primarily a nuisance pest, especially in the fall when they invade homes. They don’t bite, damage property, eat human food, or lay eggs indoors. However, their overwhelming numbers can bother homeowners. Their droppings can stain curtains, walls, and furniture, and they release a foul when squashed. Though boxelder bugs feed on boxelder, ash, or maple trees, they inflict no serious injury to the trees.
Boxelder Bug FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Are boxelder bugs an invasive species in Wisconsin?
No, boxelder bugs are not an invasive species in Wisconsin; they are a native insect in the United States.
What do boxelder bugs eat?
Boxelder bugs feed on boxelder trees and other seed-bearing trees, such as maple or ash trees. They feed on the leaves, seedpods, and flowers.