Many people are terrified of bugs. While boxelder bugs (also known as box elder bugs) are technically harmless, they can make people very uncomfortable or even frightened. These small bugs are red, with black stripes and there can be thousands in a colony. But why do boxelder bugs come into people’s homes? Read on to learn more about the method behind their madness.
The first thing to understand is that box elder bugs like warmth. When you see them outside your property you likely see them on the sidewalk, in direct sun or in your garden. They will seek out any spot that gives them the warmth and sunlight they want.
As the months turn colder and the boxelder bugs can no longer find the warmth they’re looking for, they will begin to search for a winter home. If you’re the unlucky one, that home could be yours. Their goal is to find a warm place in which to hibernate for the winter. Once spring comes along, they’ll return to the outdoors and begin their next mating cycle.
If you notice a single bug in your home, pay close attention because there are likely many more. Box elder bugs will hide in attics, basements, crawlspaces – anywhere that’s hidden. As a result, the one bug you see could mean thousands more are hiding in your home. That’s why it’s so important to act immediately if you spot even a single bug.
Box elder bugs will choose a specific house for a few reasons. First, they like sunlight. If you happen to have a home that has a lot of direct sunlight and exposure, your home is likely more appealing to them. While they can travel up to 2 miles, they typically like to stay close to the area in which they’ve spent their spring and summer. As a result, if you find bugs in your yard or garden, it’s likely they will attempt to enter your home as winter gets closer.
Boxelder bugs are also opportunists. If they find an easy way to get inside your home, they will take advantage of it. Common ways for them to get in include: cracks in the foundation, gaps between a window and the windowsill, doors with gaps underneath them and holes in window screens. Your best method of dealing with these pests is to avoid them altogether, so take steps to close up any holes or gaps you find around your home.
While you’ll certainly find a boxelder bug infestation annoying, remember that these bugs are basically harmless. They don’t bite, they’re not poisonous and they won’t reproduce in your home. In a worst case scenario, they can stain your floors or other surfaces when crushed. However, these nuisances should still be avoided. If you’re worried that your home might be the perfect winter home for these bugs, take the time to seal your home, purchase pesticide and take action at the first sign of infestation.