Boxelder Bug Control and Prevention 

By Rashawn Kuhn 3 weeks ago

The scientific name for boxelder bugs is Boisea Trivittatus. These bugs are commonly found during fall and are unlikely to be seen during summertime. They can be a nuisance because of the large number in which they usually make homes. In Columbia, these pests are commonly found in the fall. 

Moreover, residents are likely to see them near boxelder trees. They are attracted to these trees as they are the primary source of food for them. They might invade homes to find a warm place for shelter. They also release a terrible smell if they get crushed. 

While they may not cause any significant harm to people or pets, they can still be a nuisance inside the house. Their body is primarily black and has reddish-orange patches in between. It is essential to know what they look like and how they behave. 

Additionally, their habitat is also an important aspect that people should be aware of. It will help you to recognize them and get rid of them. 

Exterminator Services in Columbia can help you to get these insects off your property. 

How do boxelder bugs look? 

If we talk about their size, they are half to 0.75 inches in length and have elongated bodies. These insects can be easily seen and identified by their appearance. 

The red-orange markings on their body help to distinguish them. They also have two antennas on the front and tiny legs. 

These are winged insects, and when they are not flying, you can see their wings making a v shape. 

What are the different stages of these bugs?

There are four stages, and they all have distinct life spans:

  • Egg stage:

Their life begins with the egg stage, when a vast number of eggs are found together. This stage lasts up to a week or two. The laying of eggs generally takes place during springtime.

  • Nymph stage:

Once they come out of eggs, the nymph stage begins. They look a lot like adult boxelder bugs, but they are smaller in size. 

Furthermore, their wings are not entirely developed either. This stage can last a few weeks. 

  • Adult stage:

In their adulthood, they can live for a few months. In this stage, they start to feed on boxelder trees and reproduce as well.

  • Overwintering stage:

It is a dormancy stage that takes place during winter. They try to look for warmer areas, and they remain there until the weather gets better. For several months, they hibernate in that place. 

How can boxelder bugs get into your house?

They usually invade homes to hide during winter and may also come in search of food. There are various through which they can get into your home:

  • Since they are tiny creatures, small openings are enough for them to enter your home. 
  • If you have chimneys, it can also be a source for their entrance. 
  • Damaged windows with no screens can give way to these bugs. 
  • If a particular place around your house receives sunlight, they may gather there. Some may get inside.
  • Having a boxelder in neighborhood areas can also attract these insects.
  • They may make it to your home by clinging onto your clothes or bags. 

What can you do to prevent boxelder bugs?

Various precautions can be taken to prevent them from getting inside your home. 

  • Make use of weatherstripping or caulk to seal all the small crevices and entry points. 
  • Get the broken doors repaired.
  • If you have boxelder trees, use mesh to prevent them from entering through windows. 
  • Keep your trees and other vegetation trimmed. 

Contact pest control services if they get inside!

Once they get inside, it can be not easy to get them out. Therefore, hiring a professional can prove to be helpful. 

They can safely get these bugs out without causing any harm to your family or pets. They take all the necessary precautions while working.