Boxelder bugs might not bite or sting, but when these red-and-black insects swarm your yard or sneak into your home, they quickly become an unwelcome nuisance. Knowing what boxelder bugs eat and why they’re drawn to certain areas can help you take control before they invade your space. At On Demand Pest Control, we’re here to break down their feeding habits and share expert tips to keep these pests at bay.
Meet the Boxelder Bug: A Seasonal Pest
Boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittata) are small, winged insects easily recognized by their black bodies with vivid red or orange stripes. They’re most active during warm weather, clustering on tree trunks, rocks, or the sunny sides of buildings.
While they’re harmless to humans and don’t cause structural damage, their knack for gathering in large groups—especially indoors during fall and winter—makes them a headache for homeowners. Their favorite hangout? Areas near boxelder trees, their primary food source.
What’s on the Menu for Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs aren’t picky eaters, but they do have a preferred diet tied to specific plants. Here’s what keeps them buzzing:
- Boxelder Trees
These bugs get their name from their top food choice: boxelder trees, a member of the maple family. Using their piercing mouthparts, boxelder bugs sip sap from seeds, leaves, and soft tissues of the tree. The seeds, in particular, are a magnet for these pests, drawing crowds of them in spring and summer. Found across North America, boxelder trees make these bugs a widespread issue. - Maple and Ash Trees
When boxelder trees are scarce, these adaptable insects turn to other maple species and ash trees. They target tender leaves and developing seeds, extracting nutrients in the same way. This flexibility explains why boxelder bugs thrive even in areas without their namesake tree. - Occasional Plant Snacks
Though rare, boxelder bugs may nibble on other plants if their main courses run dry. However, they stick to their tree-based diet whenever possible.
While their feeding doesn’t usually harm healthy trees, the sheer volume of bugs can signal a growing problem for nearby homes.
Seasonal Shifts: How Feeding Drives Their Behavior
Boxelder bugs’ eating habits shift with the seasons, influencing when and where they become a pest:
- Spring and Summer: Feast Time
As temperatures rise, boxelder bugs emerge from hiding to gorge on new growth. Fresh leaves and seeds fuel their reproduction, leading to population booms. You’ll spot them clustered on boxelder, maple, or ash trees, soaking up the sun and nutrients. This active feeding phase sets the stage for bigger infestations later. - Fall and Winter: Shelter Seekers
When cooler weather hits, their focus shifts from food to survival. Feeding slows as they hunt for warm spots to overwinter—often your home. Drawn to sunny walls and cozy crevices, they slip inside through tiny gaps, hibernating in attics, basements, or wall voids until spring. On milder fall days, you might see them basking outside before they settle in.
Why Your Home Becomes a Target
Boxelder bugs don’t invade homes for food—they’re after warmth. But their journey often starts near yards with fallen seeds or leaves from boxelder, maple, or ash trees. These natural snacks keep them close, and as fall nears, your home’s sunny exterior becomes a beacon. Once inside, their numbers can pile up, turning a minor annoyance into a major frustration.
Keeping Boxelder Bugs Out: Prevention Tips
Stopping boxelder bugs starts with cutting off their food and access. Here’s how to protect your home:
- Clear Debris: Regularly sweep up seeds and leaves from boxelder, maple, or ash trees to starve them out.
- Seal Entryways: Check windows, doors, and foundations for cracks. Use caulk or weatherstripping to block their path.
- Secure Openings: Fit door sweeps and repair torn window screens. Don’t forget to seal gaps around pipes or vents.
- Trim Back Vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs away from your home’s exterior to limit their entry routes.
- Rethink Landscaping: If boxelder trees are a constant issue, consider replacing them with pest-resistant alternatives.
DIY fixes can help, but for stubborn infestations, professional pest control is the way to go. At On Demand Pest Control, our licensed experts pinpoint the problem and deliver lasting solutions—no guesswork required.
Don’t let these pests take over. Contact On Demand Pest Control for a thorough inspection and customized treatment plan.
Take Charge of Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs may not be dangerous, but their love for boxelder, maple, and ash trees can bring them too close for comfort. By understanding what they eat and how they behave, you can make your yard and home less inviting. Simple steps like cleaning up plant debris and sealing entry points go a long way—but when the swarm gets out of hand, On Demand Pest Control has your back.
Ready to say goodbye to boxelder bugs? Reach out today for fast, reliable pest control services. Let’s keep your home pest-free, season after season.
