Homeowners in the Midwest are no strangers to boxelder bugs. These insects are a common nuisance in the fall and winter. As the weather cools down, they gather in large numbers around people’s homes, searching for warmth and shelter. Boxelder bugs don’t bite or cause damage to structures, but their presence indoors can quickly become frustrating. Understanding their habits and how to keep them at bay is key to staying pest-free this season. Read on to learn about why boxelder bugs invade and what you can do to stop them.
Overwintering
Boxelder bugs are overwintering pests. This means that they survive the cold weather by finding sheltered areas to wait out the winter. During the fall, boxelder bugs gather on sunny exterior walls and siding. As temperatures drop, they make their way indoors through small cracks and crevices. Once inside, they remain until spring emerges. This is when they leave their dormant state and begin making their way back outside.
Where They Go in People’s Homes
Unlike many other pests who prefer dark, undisturbed corners of the home to hide, boxelder bugs have no problem being out in the open where people can see them. Aside from sunny exterior walls, boxelder bugs can also be found inside, hanging out on window sills and around door frames. As it gets colder, these insects usually retreat to attics, wall voids and baseboards. Wherever they can find warmth, that’s where boxelder bugs go!
Why They’re a Nuisance
It’s not likely that you’ll ever see just one or a couple of boxelder bugs. These insects invade in droves, making them that much more difficult to get rid of. Beyond the sheer number, boxelder bugs are a nuisance for homeowners for numerous other reasons. First, they emit an unpleasant odor when crushed or threatened. Second, while they don’t cause structural damage to your home, they can leave reddish-orange stains on walls, curtains and furniture from their feces or as a result of being squished. Boxelder bugs don’t pose serious health risks, but due to the protein that’s released from their decomposing bodies, some people may experience allergic reactions.
How to Prevent an Infestation
The main attractant for boxelder bugs is warmth and shelter, not food. Since boxelder bugs find their way into people’s homes through small cracks and crevices, the number one way to prevent an infestation is to make sure they can’t enter in the first place. Inspect your home’s exterior for possible entry points, like small holes and gaps, and seal them. Place screens or mesh over windows and vents, and install weather stripping around doors.
What to Do About Boxelder Bugs
If boxelder bugs have already made their way into your home, avoid the temptation to crush them, as dealing with the stains they leave behind can be a pain. Plus, dead boxelder bugs can attract other insects to your home, primarily beetles. You don’t want to invite more pest problems. Instead, try sucking them up with the vacuum. Once you’ve vacuumed them all, empty the canister immediately outside and away from your home.
Of course, the only sure-fire way to get rid of a boxelder bug infestation is to call the pros. The Omaha pest control experts at Pro-Staff have the knowledge and tools to effectively eliminate boxelder bugs and prevent them from returning. Learn more about our 9-step pest control process here or contact us online for a free quote.
