Let's Discuss Boxelder Bug Control In Reno Residential Spaces

What do you think when you hear the word "bug"? If you're like most homeowners, it's not a word you want to hear in the context of your property, especially when it comes to living in Reno: one of the more bug-friendly cities in the United States. 

From spiders, beetles, crickets, aphids, and beyond, plenty of bugs in the Reno area can wind up inside your home in search of food, water, and shelter. When it comes to pests, boxelder bugs are among the most annoying since they are attracted to regions with mild winters. If you’re unfortunate enough to live in a climate that’s pleasant for boxelder bugs, then a pest control professional may be necessary for boxelder bug control in Reno.

How Did Boxelder Bugs Get Their Name?

The boxelder bug is a type of insect native to North America. It is also known as the maple bug, elm bug, and ash-maple aphid. These bugs are usually found in warmer climates but have been known to infest homes and buildings in colder climates in search of heat during winter.

The boxelder bug gets its name because it likes to live near boxelder trees (Acer negundo). However, you can also find these bugs near other types of maple trees, such as silver maple and Norway maple trees. While these insects prefer living near maple trees, they will move into other areas if necessary or if their original habitat becomes infested with other pests such as spiders or ants. 

The boxelder bug has many characteristics that make it unique from other species of insects. For example, boxelder bugs have black bodies with red markings on their wings and legs. They also have a distinctively shaped back, which makes them easy to identify.

What Are Boxelder Bugs Attracted To?

Boxelder bugs are an extremely common pest in Reno. They are found throughout the United States but are especially prevalent in western states. Boxelder bugs are attracted to the sap of boxelder trees. They also love to feed on the seeds that these trees produce.

The boxelder bug also feeds on other plants, though they aren't as attracted to them as they are to boxelder trees. This behavior is why they tend to congregate around these trees during the summer and fall months.

Boxelder bugs are drawn to homes because they like the warmth that emanates from heating systems and light bulbs, which they use to find their way around at night. They also like moisture and will try to get into any cracks or crevices they can find, including windows, doors, and vents.

How Long Do Boxelder Bugs Live For?

The lifespan of a boxelder bug depends on many factors, including:

• Temperature
• Food supply
• Overwintering location
• Lifecycle stage

In warm climates, boxelder bugs may live longer than in cooler regions. In colder climates, they have less time to reproduce before winter sets in. Likewise, if there are plenty of food sources readily available, these insects will live longer than if they have to starve or scrounge for their meals. They typically feed on maple seeds but will also eat other fruits and seeds, as well as certain types of tree sap.

Boxelder bugs live in the trees they are feeding from, but in the fall, they start to look for a warm, protected place to overwinter. Most adult boxelder bugs can travel several blocks from their feeding area, but some have been known to travel up to two miles for winter shelter.

Boxelder nymphs are more vulnerable to the cold and do not survive as well as the adults if they fail to find a safe overwintering location before winter sets in.

Why Are Boxelder Bugs Infesting My House In Reno?

The boxelder bug prefers to stay outdoors during the summer months because it needs access to abundant sunlight here in Reno in order to survive. However, once fall rolls around, these insects start searching for a place with warmth so that they can spend their winter months comfortably. This is why you need ongoing home pest control in Reno, especially in the winter.

Boxelder bug infestations are common in Reno during the fall as well as spring. They're attracted to natural light sources like windows and doors, so when you leave your home unattended, they can easily enter through these areas.

Professional boxelder bug control is necessary if you want to keep these pests from invading your home. Boxelder bugs are known for their strong odor, which can be quite unpleasant for homeowners. In addition to being unsightly and smelly, boxelder bug waste can stain any light-colored surfaces in your home.

If you have an infestation of boxelder bugs in your Reno residential space, contact Celtic Pest Control today! Our professional technicians will use safe and effective methods to quickly eliminate these annoying intruders from your home.