The SNEAKY Boxelder Bug is looking for a warm home this winter!


As the cold winter approaches, your home could be the target of an army of hundreds, potentially thousands of these potentially reeky insects. You may not know much about them but if you are a homeowner the Boxelder Bug can be a tough adversary to get rid of with conventional techniques, and you certainly do not want them constantly around young children and pets.

Full-grown and Baby Boxelder bugs congregating on a wooden step. (Photo by Montana Natural History Centre)

Boxelder Bugs are typically half an inch long with distinctive black and red-orange colouration. They have a somewhat elongated, flat shape and a prominent antennae. The red-orange markings on their backs form a distinct pattern, making them easy to recognize. They typically have one generation per year. During the warmer months, they feed on the leaves and seeds of box elder trees. As temperatures drop in the fall, they seek shelter in and around homes until warmer weather occurs.

There are solutions, however, and no it’s not just laying store-bought dust around your garage. An integrated pest control approach by a professional will always supersede the results you would get from store-bought solutions. So many times people have called in frustrated after already spending money on store-bought solutions that don’t deal with the root of the issue. Nothing is worse than finally feeling a sense of freedom from a bug infestation only to realise that there’s still an army of bugs in your walls buzzing and crawling around. Consulting with Jim at Petty Pest Control will give you peace of mind knowing that you are dealing with a professional with proven results dealing with these insects. We will deal with the problem every step of the way ensuring your home is at its sanctuary-type feeling again.

How to get rid of Boxelder Bugs: Tips and Tricks for Effective Removal

Boxelder bugs, those pesky red and black bugs that seem to appear out of nowhere, can quickly become a nuisance in your home or business. As the temperature drops, these insects often seek shelter indoors, making your property their new cozy abode. But fear not, because Petty Pest Control Services is here to help you bid farewell to these unwelcome guests. In this article, we’ll provide you with valuable insights on how to get rid of Boxelder bugs and why it’s essential to address this issue promptly. Scroll down to see our best hacks!

Understanding Boxelder Bugs | What are they?

Before we dive into our strategies for Boxelder bug removal, let’s first get to know our unwanted visitors a little better. Boxelder bugs, scientifically known as Boisea trivittata, are small insects, usually about half an inch in length, characterized by their distinctive red or orange markings on a black background. They are often found congregating on the sunny sides of buildings or on boxelder trees, their primary food source.

Adult Boxelder Bug (Reddit)

Why Should You Get Rid of Boxelder Bug Infestations?

  • Protect Your Home: Boxelder bugs can infiltrate your home through cracks, gaps, and openings, seeking shelter from the harsh winter weather. Once inside, they can become a significant nuisance, staining walls and surfaces with their excrement and producing an unpleasant odor.
  • Prevent Reproduction: If left unchecked, Boxelder bugs can multiply quickly. By addressing the problem promptly, you can prevent a small infestation (hyperlink) from turning into a full-blown invasion.
  • Maintain Your Property’s Value: An infestation of Boxelder bugs can be a red flag for potential homebuyers or renters. Taking action to eliminate these pests can help maintain your property’s value and curb any potential damage.

How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs

Now that we understand the importance of Boxelder bug removal, let’s explore effective strategies to eliminate them from your premises.

  1. Seal Entry Points
    The first step in preventing Boxelder bugs from invading your space is to seal any potential entry points. Inspect your doors, windows, vents, and utility openings for gaps or cracks. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these openings, preventing bugs from finding their way inside.
  1. Remove Attractants
    Boxelder bugs feed on boxelder, maple, and ash trees. If you have these trees near your property, consider pruning them to reduce the bug’s food source. Additionally, keep your property free of fallen leaves and debris, as these can provide hiding places for insects.
  1. Vacuum and Dispose
    If you’ve already discovered Boxelder bugs inside your home, use a vacuum cleaner to safely collect them. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag or canister promptly and dispose of the bugs away from your home to prevent reinfestation.
  1. Professional Pest Control
    For severe infestations or persistent problems, it’s often best to call in the professionals. Petty Pest Control Services(hyperlink) has a team of experienced technicians who specialize in Boxelder bug removal. Our experts will assess the situation and implement the most effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
  1. Ongoing Maintenance
    To prevent future infestations, consider implementing ongoing maintenance measures. This may include regular inspections, sealing any new cracks or gaps, and the application of insecticide barriers around your property.

Choose Petty Pest Control Services for Effective Boxelder Bug Removal

At Petty Pest Control Services, we understand the frustration and inconvenience that Boxelder bugs can cause. Our team of skilled Boxelder bug exterminators is equipped to tackle Boxelder bug infestations swiftly and effectively. Don’t let these unwanted guests overstay their welcome; contact us today for a free quote and a pest-free home or business.

Contact (pettypestcontrolservices.ca)

In conclusion, Boxelder bugs can be a real headache if left unaddressed. With the right strategies and the assistance of Petty Pest Control Services’ boxelder bug pest control technicians, you can say goodbye to these pests and enjoy a bug-free living or working environment. Don’t wait until the problem escalates; take action now, and let us help you reclaim your space.

Remember, at Petty Pest Control Services, we will NOT stop until your pest problems disappear!