Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittata) typically display a distinctive coloration featuring black and orange-red markings. The main colors associated with boxelder bugs are black and bright red-orange. Their body is primarily black, with prominent red-orange markings on their wings and along the edges of their abdomen. These colors serve as a warning to potential predators and are characteristic of adult boxelder bugs. However, the exact coloration may vary slightly among individual bugs. Young nymphs of boxelder bugs, especially early instars, may have a slightly different appearance, with a more reddish hue on their bodies as they develop.

Boxelder bug infestations can be a nuisance, especially when these insects invade homes or other structures in large numbers:

Causes of Boxelder Bug Infestations:

• Seasonal Behavior: Boxelder bugs tend to become more problematic during the fall and winter. As the weather cools down, they seek shelter to overwinter in protected locations, including residential buildings.
• Host Trees: Infestations often originate from the presence of boxelder, maple, or ash trees near the infested structure. These trees serve as the primary food source and habitat for boxelder bugs.

Signs of Boxelder Bug Infestations:

• Swarming: One of the most noticeable signs is the sudden appearance of large numbers of boxelder bugs around windows, doors, and the exterior of buildings. They may cluster in sunny areas to bask in the warmth.
• Indoor Presence: Boxelder bugs will enter buildings through cracks, gaps, and openings in search of warmth. You may find them indoors on windowsills, walls, curtains, or other surfaces, especially on sunny winter days.
• Foul Odor: When disturbed or crushed, boxelder bugs release a foul-smelling substance that can stain surfaces and emit an unpleasant odor.
• Damage: While not harmful to humans or pets, the presence of boxelder bugs indoors can be a nuisance. Their excrement may also leave small stains on surfaces.

Management and Control of Boxelder Bug Infestations:

• Sealing Entry Points: To prevent infestations, seal all potential entry points, including cracks in walls, gaps around windows and doors, and openings in screens and vents.
• Physical Removal: Use a vacuum cleaner to safely remove boxelder bugs from indoor spaces. Empty the vacuum bag or canister immediately to prevent them from escaping.
• Insecticides: Chemical insecticides can be used as a last resort, but they are often more effective when applied by pest control professionals. They may treat the exterior of buildings and potential entry points.
• Tree Management: Reducing the number of host trees near your property or applying insecticides to these trees can help minimize the source of the infestation.
• Professional Pest Control: If infestations persist or are severe, it's advisable to consult with a pest control expert who can provide tailored solutions and treatments.
• Preventative Measures: Consider taking preventative measures in late summer or early fall before boxelder bugs seek shelter indoors. This may involve sealing cracks, inspecting and repairing screens, and removing any bugs found indoors promptly.

Boxelder bug infestations are often associated with the cooler seasons when these insects seek shelter indoors. Recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps to prevent their entry can help homeowners effectively manage and mitigate infestations, ensuring a more comfortable living environment.

The life cycle of boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittata) is relatively simple and follows incomplete metamorphosis, consisting of three main stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Here is a detailed overview of the life cycle of boxelder bugs:

Boxelder Bug Eggs

The boxelder bug life cycle typically begins in late spring or early summer when adult females lay clusters of small, reddish-brown eggs. These eggs are usually laid on the bark, leaves, or in crevices of their host trees, which are primarily boxelder (Acer negundo) trees but can also include other maple and ash species.

Each egg cluster can contain anywhere from a dozen to several dozen eggs.

The eggs typically take about one to two weeks to hatch, depending on temperature and environmental conditions.

Boxelder Bug Nymphs

When the eggs hatch, nymphs emerge. Nymphs are the immature stages of boxelder bugs and undergo several molts as they grow and develop.

Nymphs initially appear bright red-orange and are wingless. As they mature through five instar stages, they gradually darken in color and develop wing pads.

Nymphs are relatively small and resemble smaller versions of the adult boxelder bugs.

The nymphal stage lasts for several weeks, during which time they feed on the sap and seeds of host trees.

Adults

After completing their final molt, nymphs become fully mature adults.

Adult boxelder bugs are approximately 1/2 inch (12.5 mm) in length and have an elongated, oval-shaped body.

They display the characteristic coloration of black with prominent red-orange markings on their wings and along the edges of their abdomen.

Adult boxelder bugs have fully developed wings and are capable of flight.

During the warm months, adult boxelder bugs feed on host trees, mate, and lay eggs, continuing the life cycle.

Seasonal Behavior and Overwintering:

As the weather turns colder in the fall, adult boxelder bugs start seeking sheltered locations to overwinter. They often invade buildings, including houses, garages, and sheds, in search of warmth.

During the winter months, boxelder bugs enter a state of diapause, reducing their metabolic activity. They remain relatively inactive until the return of warmer weather, at which point they emerge from their overwintering sites and resume their activities.

The life cycle of boxelder bugs typically spans one year, with a single generation produced annually. Understanding their life cycle is essential for effective pest management and for predicting when they are most likely to become a nuisance, particularly when they seek shelter indoors during the fall and winter months.