Boxelder bugs are a North American species of insect. Although they can be found among ash and maple trees, the boxelder gets its name from the boxelder tree, another tree that the insect frequents. Boxelders are intimidating-looking bugs; adults are half an inch long with creepy-crawly legs and a set of long antennae. They are black or dark brown in color with distinctive red markings. Despite their less than pleasing appearance, boxelder bugs are considered a nuisance rather than a threat. Learning about these insects can help underscore the need for professional pest control in Salt Lake City.
What Do Boxelder Bugs Eat?
Boxelder bugs eat sap, which they suck from the leaves, branches, and seeds of the maple or boxelder tree. They have sucking mouth appendages that are specially equipped for the task. Occasionally, boxelder bugs will eat strawberry plants and apple trees.
The Lifecycle Of The Boxelder Bug
Boxelder bugs emerge from their overwintering sites in the spring and begin mating. Female boxelder bugs lay clusters of yellow eggs during the summer months. They usually deposit their eggs in grass, shrubs, or trees; however, boxelder bugs sometimes lay eggs within the eaves of a home. If this happens, you may find boxelder bug eggs in your home, a sign of an infestation nearby.
Boxelder bugs take about two weeks to hatch; during that time, the eggs go from yellow to red as the embryo develops. Nymphs hatch from the eggs and feed on fallen boxelder seeds and leaves. With a lifespan of only one year, boxelder bugs reach adulthood by the autumn, at which point they begin looking for shelter from the winter months ahead.
When Are Boxelder Bugs The Most Active?
Boxelder bugs are most active during warm months. They do not tolerate the cold well; therefore, during the winter months, boxelder bugs find shelter and go into an inactive state. Only the warmth of spring can stir the boxelder back into activity. Boxelders frequently overwinter in attics and wall cavities, which is why, during boxelder bug infestations, swarms of boxelder bugs emerge out of or through homes in the spring. The boxelder bugs are activated and trying to get outside to mate. Because of this, they will frequently flock around windows and doorways.
How To Get Rid Of Boxelder Bugs For Good
If you do not currently have boxelder bugs in or around your Salt Lake City property, it is wise to start home pest prevention. Some easy and helpful prevention tips include:
- Caulking windows and doors
- Maintain window and door screens
- Install door sweeps to exterior doors
If your Salt Lake City home is past prevention, getting rid of boxelder bugs is the next step. The best way to deal with any infestation, including boxelder bugs, is to seek out a professional. If homeowners attempt do-it-yourself pest control, they risk causing harm to themselves and their property. Additionally, DIY pest control is often ineffective and pushes the infestation deeper. Killing boxelder bugs on your own can attract scavenger bugs to your Salt Lake City home, adding to your pest problems.
Thanks to Pest Pro Pest Control, getting rid of boxelder bugs has never been easier. We make pest control in Salt Lake City simple and effective. We guarantee excellent service that will leave your home free of all pests. For peace of mind and professionals you can trust, give Pest Pro Pest Control a call!