It’s a crisp fall evening, and you’re settling in for a cozy night at home. Suddenly, you see a red and black bug crawling across your windowpane. You’ve likely encountered a boxelder bug. While these shield-shaped insects aren’t dangerous, a mass influx in the fall can be a real nuisance. Here’s a guide with effective methods to prevent boxelder bugs from turning your home into their winter haven.
Identifying Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are easily recognizable by their distinctive appearance. These bugs are about ½-inch-long, with a red body marked with black stripes. They’re primarily found in North America and feed on the sap of boxelder trees. However, in the fall, they seek warm shelter for the winter, which often leads them to invade residential homes.
Understanding Boxelder Bug Behavior
Your home offers everything boxelder bugs need for a cozy winter. Here’s why they find it so inviting during the colder months:
- Warmth Seeking: Boxelder bugs instinctively search for warm places to overwinter as temperatures drop in the fall. Your cozy home with its heated walls is a prime target.
- Light Attraction: Boxelder bugs are drawn to light sources. Exterior lights around your house can act as beacons, guiding them toward potential entry points.
Sealing Entry Points to Block Boxelder Bugs
Sealing entry points is the most effective way to prevent boxelder bugs from entering your home. Here’s how to do it:
- Inspect Thoroughly. Look for cracks or gaps around windows, doors, foundations, and siding. Even a dime-sized opening is big enough for a boxelder bug.
- Caulk and Seal. Seal any identified cracks or gaps with quality caulk. This creates a physical barrier that keeps boxelder bugs out. Pay particular attention to areas around pipes, vents, and utility lines. Entry points annually before the fall season or as needed if you notice any gaps or cracks forming.
- Check Door Sweeps. Ensure your door sweeps make good contact with the floor to create a tight seal. Weather stripping around windows can add an extra layer of protection.
- Maintain Screens. Inspect your window screens regularly and promptly repair any holes or tears to prevent any accidental entries.
2 Ways to Reduce Boxelder Bug Attractions Around Your Home
Taking measures outside your home can also help reduce boxelder bug attraction. Here are two things you can do, especially in late summer and early fall when boxelder bugs are most likely to seek shelter:
- Trim Back Trees. Boxelder trees near your house provide food and easy access for boxelder bugs. Trim branches away from your house to create a barrier.
- Reduce Lights. During fall, minimize the use of exterior lights near entry points at night to reduce the attraction for light-seeking boxelder bugs.
Additional Tips for Boxelder Bug Control
Implementing additional preventive measures can further protect your home, such as:
- Inspections: Periodically inspect your home and surrounding areas for signs of boxelder bug activity. Early detection can help you address issues before they become severe.
- Maintenance: Maintain your yard and garden to reduce potential habitats for boxelder bugs. Remove leaf litter, fallen branches, and other debris regularly.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your home to reduce humidity levels. This makes it less attractive to boxelder bugs and other pests.
When to Call in Pest Control Professionals
While these preventative measures can be effective, sometimes professional help is needed. Here’s when to contact a pest control expert:
- If you’re seeing boxelder bugs in large numbers already inside your home, it might indicate a significant infestation outside. A professional can assess the situation and recommend appropriate actions.
- If you’ve tried these methods for a while and boxelder bugs are still finding their way in, it’s time to call in the experts.
Keep Boxelder Bugs Out for Good with Aptive
Following these boxelder bug prevention tips and remaining vigilant can help keep your home a haven for you—not for these red and black hitchhikers. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and professional assistance when needed will help manage the situation.
For further assistance, reach out to our professional pest control service. We can assess your situation and suggest a tailored plan to address your concern.
