Boxelder Bugs
Biosea trivittata
General Info
- Boxelder bugs are black with red markings across their backs
- Boxelder bugs have beaks that they use to suck plant juices, but they do not bite
- Any warm, winter day may “wake-up” these bugs and bring them into your living areas
Size
12.7 millimetres long
Colour
Black | Red
Commonly Mistaken for
Additional details
- In the summer boxelder bugs live outdoors on trees and shrubs
- When it’s cool, these bugs will gather together in large numbers in sunny areas like home siding, concrete areas, porches, and tree trunks
- Inside they will hide under siding, in attics, garages, basements, and sheds
- For food, they feed on trees and shrubs in your yard (however, they rarely create noticeable damage to plants or trees)
- As the weather cools, they will come inside seeking warmth and shelter for the winter
- Only occasionally, very large outbreaks may cause feeding damage to plants, fruit trees, and fruits
- Large indoor invasions can be a nuisance to homeowners
- Caulk any points where bugs can come inside, including entry points from outside or neighboring units
- Vacuum regularly to remove insects in sensitive areas