BOXELDER BUGS

Boxelder (aka Box Elder) Bugs are formally known as Boisea trivittatus, from the Family Rhopalidae, and informally known as scentless plant bugs.

They are common during the mid-summer through fall seasons. Occassionally, they may be found in the spring.

Boxelder Bugs Fall Pests

Boxelder Bugs seek dry warm places to winter such as within homes. When they emerge in the spring, the female boxelder bugs seek out places to lay their eggs which hatch within two weeks. During the summer, boxelder bugs are primarily found on Acer negundo (aka boxelder) trees, hence their name. The early hatching boxelder bugs lay eggs for a second generation of boxelder bugs.

Boxelder bugs remain active through the fall weather into late fall. They are found in groups on the sides of buildings, trees, and rocks when the weather is warm.

Boxelder Bugs Seek Homes For Wintering

As the fall weather cools, boxelder bugs seek out warm, dry places such as residential homes and commercial stores and businesses for their winter hibernation. Boxelder bugs enter structures through gaps around doors, windows, and even pipes and foundations.

Boxelder bugs that sought refuge in homes may be warmed by furnaces or sunlight and become active during the late fall and winter months. Once active again, they are free to venture into rooms and explore for food.

Stains & Other Signs Of Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs can stain curtains, furniture, walls, and ceilings, and so forth. While they are not known to feed or reproduce inside the wintering walls, they can be a nuisance.

Getting Rid Of Boxelder Bugs

Bugs Beware's Fall Treatments are very effective in getting rid of boxelder bugs. Those treatments may begin as early as late summer and be schedule into late fall. "The sooner, the better" as the saying goes.