Box Elder Bugs Pest Control

Introduction

• Scientific name is: Boisea trivittata.
• Are not known to cause significant damage so they are not agricultural pests.
• Named because of their tendency to gather around boxelder trees.

Identification

• Grow to a half inch in size.
• Have an oval shaped body.
• Are dark brown or black in color with red wing veins and markings on the abdomen.

Mannerisms of Box Elder Bugs

• Feed on seeds of Acer species of trees almost exclusively.
• Release a pungent odor when disturbed.
  • Allows them to conspicuously gather without being preyed on.
• Emit a foul odor when smashed.
• Gather and hibernate during winter months in wall voids, basements, and window frames until heating systems revive them.
• Their feces can stain fabrics.

Prevention

• A water hose can easily disperse their gatherings.
• Another common pest control method for these insects are insecticidal soaps and pesticides.
• Sealing cracks in walls and foundations can do a great deal of good as well