Box elder bugs are a lot like Santa. For the majority of the year, nobody talks about them. It’s only when the weather gets colder, and the first signs of winter start to show that their name comes up. The only difference between box elder bugs and good ole’ Saint Nick is that these pests want to take rather than give. The question is, is there any way to keep these annoying seasonal pests out of your Denver home, and if they get inside, what is the best way to get them out? To help you solve these mysteries, here are a few things you should know.
What Are Box Elder Bugs?
Box elder bugs are low-level agricultural pests that infrequently damage apples, grapes, strawberries, peaches, and some non-fruiting trees such as ash and maple. You can identify this pest by its long, flat oval-shaped body, black color, and the distinct red lines that circle its thorax.
When the temperature cools down during fall and winter, box elder bugs begin looking for ways to stay warm. These pests will often migrate in large numbers to the siding of homes where they can sunbathe and soak in the heat. It is from here that they find entry points to get inside; this is where box elder bugs go from agricultural pests to home pests. The thing is, box elder bugs only invade homes to stay warm, and they will do what they can to keep out of sight. The truth is, they are not always great at doing this, especially during the spring, when they become more active and get lost inside homes while trying to find their way out.
Are Box Elder Bugs Dangerous?
Box elder bugs pose no health risks to humans. Despite their intimidating appearance, these pests do not sting or spread diseases, and they only bite if directly threatened. Annoyance is the biggest problem these invasive bugs cause.
If you find one of these bugs inside your home, do not squish it; this will only leave behind unsightly bug guts. Instead, use a vacuum; handheld ones work best. If you harbor no ill will toward these bugs, a catch and release method also works. Just keep in mind, that they will most likely try to find their way back inside, especially if it's cold out.
Preventing Box Elder Bugs
Preventing box elder bugs is hard, but deterring them is simple. Reduce your chances of a box elder bug infestation by using these tips:
- Use a caulking gun to fill in holes, cracks, and openings in your exterior foundation.
- Repair damage to window and door screens.
- Make sure all of your exterior doors have door sweeps.
- Replace worn or damaged weatherstripping around your home.
- Cover exterior vents with fine metal screens.
- Remove box elder trees from your property.
- Turn off exterior lights at night or invest in insect-resistant light bulbs for them.
- Pick fruit off fruit trees as they ripen.
An Easier Solution To Box Elder Bugs
If you want to ensure box elder bugs stay out of your Denver home this winter, your best bet is to trust the experts at Beeline Pest Control. We will implement advanced pest control techniques using industry-leading equipment and treatments around your property to ensure these pests stay outside where they belong. We believe that a happy customer is the best sign of success, and there is nothing we want more than to be successful.
Give our team a call today to learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control services, or to schedule a professional visit for your Denver home.