Michigan
State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500549
06/24/03
Boxelder Bugs
The boxelder bug occurs throughout the range of its principle host in
the U.S. The nymphs (immature) are bright red in color; adults (12-14mm
in length) are dark brownish-black with three red stripes on the thorax
and red wing veins. The wings are thickened and leathery at the base
and membranous at the tip. The wings at rest are held flat over the
back with the membranous tips overlapping.
Boxelder bugs feed on pistillate (female) flowers, fruits, foliage and
tender twigs of its preferred host, boxelder, but also may feed on
other maples, ash, and even apple, grape and plum.
In the fall they will swarm towards houses looking for suitable
hibernation sites and will congregate in large numbers on porches,
exterior walls, foundations, and walkways. They do not feed on
foodstuffs, fabrics or furnishings, but they may feed on some
houseplants. They can bite, and will do so if carelessly handled. They
may stain resting areas on walls and curtains with brown fecal
material, and they produce a disagreeable odor when crushed.
If you choose to use an insecticide out of doors, spray boxelder bugs
on tree trunks, foliage (diazinon 25%EC carbaryl 50% WP and
insecticidal soap). Do not use carbaryl on house or other buildings.
Indoors: vacuum them up.
For a complete listing of suggested control options for all home, yard
and garden insect pests contact your local Extension Service, found
under local government in the phone book.
Read and follow instructions on the pesticide label. Heed all warnings.
Check with your physician if you have any concerns regarding your
personal health risk.
References
Revised by Tom Ellis, M.S., Department of Entomology
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