Box elder bugs are one of those pests that seem to be everywhere. You might see them congregating on the side of your house or crawling around in your garden. But what exactly are these critters? Are box elder bugs dangerous? Keep reading to learn more about box elder bugs and how to deal with them.
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What Are Box Elder Bugs?
Box elder bugs are black in color with distinct red stripes running down their backs. They get their name from the fact that they often feed on box elder trees. However, they will also feed on ash trees and maple trees.
Box elder bugs typically measure between 1/2 an inch to 5/8ths of an inch in length. While they don’t bite humans, they can give you a nasty sting if you accidentally squash them. They also release a foul-smelling liquid when threatened or disturbed.
Box elder bugs are typically found in the western and central United States. However, they have been known to travel long distances in search of food. So, you might find them in other parts of the country as well.
What Do Box Elder Bugs Do?
Box elder bugs are primarily a nuisance pest. They don’t cause any significant damage to your home or property. However, they can be a nuisance because of their large numbers and their tendency to gather in groups.
If box elder bugs get into your home, they will often congregate in small cracks and crevices. You might find them hiding behind baseboards or in between window panes. While they don’t bite humans, their presence can be unsettling for some people.
A box elder bug infestation in a home could also lead to a foul odor. This is because the bugs release a stinky liquid when they feel threatened or disturbed. If you have a lot of box elder bugs in your home, the smell can be quite overwhelming.
In the fall, box elder bugs will often congregate on the sunny side of buildings in large numbers. They do this to absorb heat and prepare for winter. While they’re not causing any damage, their large numbers can be a nuisance.
For more reading on the box elder bug, check out Pest World‘s detailed article on the topic.
Are Box Elder Bugs Dangerous?
Fortunately, box elder bugs are not dangerous to humans or animals. In large numbers, they can become a nuisance since they tend to congregate on the sunny side of buildings or homes. They can also stain curtains, drapes, and clothing if squashed.
During the winter months, box elder bugs will sometimes find their way into homes to escape the cold weather outside. If this happens, simply vacuum them up and release them back outside. Do not use chemical pesticides inside your home as this can be harmful to your family’s health.
Box elder bugs typically eat leaves, flowers, and seedpods. If they’re feeling especially adventurous, they have been known to nibble on the occasional fruit or vegetable. It’s unlikely that they would munch on your home or furniture like termites or carpenter ants.
Do Box Elder Bugs Damage Homes?
Box elder bugs do not typically cause any significant damage to homes. However, in large numbers, they can become a nuisance since they tend to congregate on the sunny side of buildings or homes. They can also stain curtains, drapes, and clothing if squashed.
Box elder bugs might be annoying, but they won’t do any lasting damage to your home or property. If you have a box elder bug problem, the best thing to do is vacuum them up and release them outside. However, if you have any further questions or concerns, be sure to contact a professional pest control company for assistance.
