What Will Keep Boxelder Bugs Away From My House In Reno?

As the cooler months of the year approach here in Reno, various pests that ordinarily reside in natural outdoor settings will invade homes, seeking refuge from the cold. Boxelder bugs are a pest that will enter your home to overwinter and later emerge again in the spring. Many Reno-area homeowners remain unaware of the best methods of preventing these pests.

Are you looking for answers regarding how to get rid of boxelder bugs that exist on your property? Contacting a licensed pest control company is generally the best course of action. A trained Reno pest control professional understands the best ways of eliminating these insects from the premises and knows how to keep boxelder bugs away.

What Are Boxelder Bugs?

Boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittata) are insects and natives of various western states in the United States. In recent years, boxelder bugs have increasingly been seen in the eastern parts of the U.S. and Canada. Boxelder bugs are named as such because you most commonly find them near boxelder trees. As herbivores, boxelder bugs primarily consume the seeds of trees.

Boxelder trees are a type of maple tree with little decorative appeal that contains soft wood with minimal commercial value. However, boxelder trees may benefit the environment by preventing erosion, particularly along riverbanks.

Boxelder bugs are winged insects that have a distinctive appearance with long, flat black bodies with orange or reddish markings. Boxelder bugs typically measure about ½  inch long and are often seen congregating in groups with many others.

What do boxelder bug nymphs look like? In contrast to the adults, immature boxelder bugs (nymphs) are wingless and appear red.

What is the lifespan of a boxelder bug? Boxelder bugs generally have a short life span, with few surviving for one year. Boxelder bug nymphs typically die when the colder temperatures arrive, yet many adults will survive by overwintering in an inactive state.

Are Boxelder Bugs Dangerous?

Although some boxelder bugs in Reno have mouthparts with the strength to pierce the skin, incidents are rare; boxelder bugs are nuisance pests that pose minimal risks to humans. When crushed, boxelder bugs often emit a foul odor. Boxelder bug waste could stain items such as curtains or upholstered furniture inside your home.   

What Attracts Boxelder Bugs To A House?

Yards with boxelder, maple, or ash trees are most likely to attract these flying pests, as they consume the seeds of these trees. Boxelder bugs most commonly approach structures seeking access to sunlight and warmth. Homes with many windows or surfaces that reflect heat are more likely to attract these pests. In the fall, boxelder bugs might enter homes and overwinter in tight spaces such as wall voids or crevices within attics or crawl spaces.

Are you noticing an excessive number of boxelder bugs around your home? Speak with a local pest control company for assistance. An experienced pest control professional has the tools needed for safely getting rid of boxelder bugs.

What's The Best Way To Get Rid Of Boxelder Bugs?

Is your property a haven for unwanted boxelder bugs in Reno? The recommended course of action involves consulting with a trained pest management professional.

Celtic Pest Control provides solutions for homeowners who need professional pest control for boxelder bugs.  One of our service technicians will visit the property and conduct an assessment. This inspection allows our specialist to create a customized treatment plan to solve the problem. Keep in mind that we always stand behind the quality of our work and remain committed to providing top-quality customer service.

Reach out today for help with boxelder bugs and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Reno.