There are many different types of pests. Some steal food off of countertops. Others cause damage to property. There are even pests that hitchhike rides on items that people carry indoors. Today we will be talking about a pest that only comes onto properties that have a specific type of trees. We are talking about boxelder bugs. If you regularly find these pests in and around your Las Vegas home, here are a few things to consider.
What Are Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs are invasive pests that live here in Las Vegas and in many other states across America. You can identify one of these insects by their black ½” long, oval-shaped bodies and orange markings. Hidden in the patterns of their midsection and abdomen are a pair of wings that these pests use to fly in and around homes. Nymph boxelder bugs are similar in appearance to adults but lack wings and are bright red in color.
Why Boxelder Bugs Like Boxelder Trees
Boxelder bugs are named after the boxelder tree. How can you identify one of these trees? It will most likely be swarming with boxelder bugs! We should mention, however, that boxelder trees are not the only trees these pests infest. They are just their most popular choice. Other trees you might find these pests on include maple and ash trees.
During the summer months, boxelder bugs feed on tree seeds, developing leaves, and fruits such as plums and apples. Starting in mid-July, these pests start laying their eggs inside the cracks and crevices of trees. These eggs take 10 to 14 days to hatch. Due to how rapidly these pests reproduce, infestations usually grow fast.
The Reason Boxelder Bugs Invade Homes
Boxelder bugs get into homes for two reasons. Either they got lost and accidentally wandered inside, or they get cold and invade out of desperation. As we head towards fall and winter, infestations of these pests will become more and more common. For this reason, we recommend taking precautions now.
Are Boxelder Bugs Dangerous?
Boxelder bugs are not known to be dangerous pests. They don't spread any dangerous diseases and they have no stinger nor venom. They will, however, bite if directly threatened or trapped. Another problem these pests cause around homes comes in the form of plant damage. If you like having live plants indoors or have fruit trees that you value, boxelder bugs will be a problem.
How To Prevent Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are a huge nuisance when they come indoors. To keep these pests out of your Las Vegas home, here are some exclusion strategies for you to try.
- Fix holes, rips, and tears in window/door screens.
- Use a caulking gun to fill in holes and cracks inside your home’s foundation and around window/door frames.
- Make sure all exterior doors have door sweeps.
- Address damage to siding and weatherstripping.
The Benefits Of Professional Boxelder Bug Control
If you have not yet considered the benefits of an on-going general pest control plan, today is your day to do so. As we head towards winter, more and more invasive pests will be looking to your home as a safe place to live. To protect your property against invasive insects, rodents, and arachnids, hire the experts at Anderson Pest Control. Our team of trained technicians will put in place lasting protective measures around your property to ensure pests stay out, year-round.
Contact our team now to discover your answer to pest problems or for any questions you have about pests in the Las Vegas area.