Have you seen a lot of black bugs with red or orange markings outside your home this fall? They were likely elder bugs, relatively harmless insects typically found on box elder, maple, and ash trees in summer months. Once the temperatures drop, they seek warmth and shelter. Although they don’t sting or bite, they are a nuisance that can quickly infest your home in the fall. Many homeowners are clueless how to deal with this particular bug problem, which is why the exterminators at Arab Termite and Pest Control of Cincinnati in Ohio have compiled this information to help customers take action before it’s too late.

Why Are They Surrounding Your Home?

Box elder bugs are cold-blooded insects that must stay warm to survive. They will die if they get too cold, so they move into heated structures during the fall. The first warning sign homeowners have is when these pests begin gathering around the sunny exterior of your home. Soon, they start moving indoors through any cracks, gaps, and holes they can find.

How Do You Get Rid of Them?

Seal any holes, gaps, and cracks around your pipes, windows, doors, air conditioning units, wires, and foundation you see using caulk or another sealant. Keep shrubs and trees trimmed away from your house, and consider removing any box elder trees on your property. If you’re already finding these bugs inside your home, an exterminator can use pest control products, traps, tools, and technology to address the problem.

Homeowners and businesses in Hamilton County rely on the exterminators at Arab Termite and Pest Control of Cincinnati for an affordable and effective solution to elder bugs. With almost 90 years of experience as a pest control company, they can also treat carpenter ants, spiders, termites, and rodents, as well as numerous other bug problems. Call (513) 385-3430 to schedule an assessment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.