Box Elder Bugs: 3 Important Things to Consider

Box elder bugs can be some of the most annoying Idaho pests during the late summer and fall months. They gather in huge clusters and can get into homes and cause frustration for residents. Let’s take a closer look at 3 of the most important things to know about box elder bugs in Idaho.

Box elder bug by Ryan Hodnett, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons



1. How to Identify Box Elder Bugs

Box elder bugs have a flattened and elongated appearance with 6 legs and two antennae. They typically grow to about ½ an inch long, not including the antennae which are approximately half of their body length. The main body of a box elder bug is gray to black, but their most identifying characteristics are their reddish-orange markings and red eyes.

The bright colored markings are found behind the head and along the side of the body and wings. Immature box elder bugs, known as nymphs, are similar in shape and appearance to adults, except they are bright red in color and do not yet have wings.

Note: Box Elder bugs are sometimes mistaken for Elm Seed Bugs, which we also wrote a post on.

2. Do Box Elder Bugs Bite?

Box elder bugs are considered harmless and do not bite, sting, or cause problems in pantries. Even though they are not dangerous, they can still cause major headaches for homeowners. During the late summer and fall, box elder bugs will start to gather together on surfaces to soak in the sun. Common surfaces that may attract large numbers of bugs are fences, walls, rocks, sidewalks, and doors.

The large number of bugs can be embarrassing and disturbing. Worse is when the box elder bugs find their way into homes through cracks, crevices, doors, and open windows. Once inside, they will overwinter in attics or wall voids. They may also produce an unpleasant odor when crushed, and their fecal material can leave stains.

3. Prevention is Key

If you have seen box elder bugs in the past, you should take action now to prevent problems. Start by using caulk and weatherstripping around doors and windows and make sure that all window screens are in good repair.

Next, fill any cracks and gaps along the foundation, and cover all vents with wire mesh to block entry points. It is also very helpful to hire an Idaho pest control expert to spray a barrier treatment of insecticide around your home. This will be effective against many other pests as well. If you encounter box elder bugs that have already found their way into your house, simply vacuum them up and dispose of the bag in an outdoor trash can. 

Averse Pest Control is your go-to company for pest control services in the Boise area. Our team of professionals is trained to handle all your Idaho pest needs. Call us today for more information and to get started.