Say Goodbye To Boxelder Bugs: Proven Strategies For Control Around Your Reno Home

Although boxelder bugs commonly attack boxelder trees, they’re just as likely to appear around your home. They do not cause harm to people or pets, but they congregate in large numbers that make them impossible to miss and highly annoying. Figuring out how to get rid of boxelder bugs is a challenge for the average homeowner, so having our Reno pest control experts help you control these bugs is the best strategy to keep them from being a nuisance.

Key Characteristics Of Boxelder Bugs: How To Identify Them

Boxelder bugs in Reno have a number of distinguishing markings that make them easier to identify than some other insects you may notice around your home. Some of the key characteristics these insects have include:

• About half an inch in length

• Black bodies with dark red-orange markings

• Shaped like a sandal

• Winged insects that fly

• Often appear in large groups

• Two antennae

• Six legs

Some people call them “Halloween bugs” because they have orange and black colors. 

Although they will feed on the boxelder tree and frequently lay eggs in the bark of these trees, boxelder bugs do not need to have boxelder trees nearby to end up on your property. Like ladybugs, they may winter inside some loose siding or in a foundation crack on a home, emerging in the spring in huge numbers both inside and outside the home.

The Risks Of Boxelder Bug Infestations: Why You Should Take Action

Boxelder bugs do not attempt to harm humans. They do not carry disease, and they do not bite humans on purpose. A boxelder bug could bite a human if startled, causing a reaction like a mosquito bite. For these reasons, some people may choose to ignore them, rather than trying to control an infestation.

However, these insects can be problematic for a number of different reasons, including:

• Discoloring leaves as they feed on them

• Destroying fruit on apple trees

• Destroying fruit on plum trees

• Causing staining from droppings or being crushed

• Releasing an unpleasant odor when crushed

Rather than tolerating the nuisances that these insects create, work with Celtic Pest Control to keep boxelder bugs away.

Boxelder Bug Extermination: How To Eliminate An Infestation

Although you may find some home remedies on the internet or some products at a local store that claim to remove boxelder bugs, the best strategy is hiring a professional. These insects are especially tough to control once they enter your home. Making mistakes in trying to control them in the early stages of an infestation can leave you with unwanted staining on your fabrics and other nuisances.

Some advice on the internet may even suggest that you remove boxelder trees and fruit trees from your property. At Celtic Pest Control, we don’t believe you should have to kill trees to effectively control a boxelder bug infestation.

We understand the importance of developing a control strategy that perfectly fits your situation. We offer treatment options that are environmentally friendly, ensuring your pets and children are safe.

Boxelder Bug Prevention: Effective Strategies For Keeping Them At Bay

So how do you get rid of boxelder bugs in your home? It can be tough to do on your own, as they are persistent insects that don’t respond to some methods homeowners may try for eliminating other pesky bugs. The experts at Celtic Pest Control have several methods we can deploy to help with boxelder bug removal and control. Reach out to us today for a free cost estimate and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Reno.