What Is the Boxelder Bug, and How Can You Control It?

October 20th, 2019

The boxelder bug is an insect that is native to the female boxelder tree. While it is completely harmless, it can be quite an annoyance in the fall when they seek shelter from the cold and in the spring when hibernation ends. Here is what you need to know about the boxelder bug and how to control the problem.

How They Get In

Boxelder bugs typically get into homes through gaps around windows, doors, vents, and rooflines. These bugs can travel up to two or three blocks from their host boxelder tree. They will often travel to the nearest home; and if they can’t get in, they will move to the next. Once they have gotten inside, it can be very difficult to remove them.

The Best Method of Control

The best way to control a boxelder bug problem is to remove the female host boxelder tree. Male boxelder trees do not attract these bugs, so you don’t have to worry about whether or not these trees need to be removed. The female boxelder tree is rather unattractive, so most people do not mind removing it.

Getting Help

If you wind up with boxelder bugs in your home, you have a small window in the fall in which to rid yourself of them. Once they get inside, they will set up shop in basements or attics and find corners in which to hibernate for the winter. When spring arrives and they come out of hiding, it will be much easier to find them to eliminate them.

If you have a boxelder bug problem, we can help. Contact us today for more information or to get started.