Boxelder bugs are small beetles that enter homes to find warmth and then never leave. The best defense against these pests is prevention. Below is some more information on these bugs as well as a few tips that exterminators recommend to stop them from entering your home. 

How to Identify Them 

Boxelder bugs are black beetles about a half-inch in length with red or orange markings. Their wings form an “X” pattern on their back. Young boxelder bugs are red and don’t develop their black color until adulthood. They are part of the same family as stinkbugs and have a foul odor if crushed. These beetles are mainly active in Minnesota during the summer months, but may appear during the spring and fall as well.

What Damage They Cause

During the spring and early summer, boxelder bugs are outside, feeding and reproducing. At this point, they are not entering homes. Once summer starts to cool, however, they begin to search for ways to stay warm. When they are inside, they will not reproduce; however, they will defecate and leave small red or brown stains on bedding and walls. 

How to Prevent Them 

These pests enter through small cracks and openings in the home. Repair or replace any damaged window and door screens, and caulk areas where cables or phone lines enter your home. You should also install sweeps or rubber seals to the bottom of all your doors. If boxelder bugs still make their way inside, call an exterminator for help. 

What an Exterminator Can Do

Boxelder, maple, and ash trees are all food sources for the boxelder beetle, and they also feed on gardens. However, removing these trees or avoiding purchasing properties with them is not a viable solution, as the pests can fly up to two miles. Luckily, Minnesota has not seen boxelder infestations since 1988, but these bugs can still be a nuisance in smaller quantities. Have an exterminator inspect your property and locate any “hot spots.” These areas can be sprayed to limit or remove the boxelder population from outside your home.

When it comes to boxelder bugs, you need to have a reliable and knowledgeable exterminator service on hand. RemTech in St. Paul, MN, can handle all pests from mice and rats to hornets and beetles. Their team is dedicated to providing fast, discreet, and professional services to all residential and commercial clients. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or call (651) 600-9983.