Boxelder bugs, the pesky pests notorious for annoying Denver residents, have become a prevalent concern for local homeowners. These small, black-and-red insects tend to infest boxelder, maple, and ash trees, infiltrating residential areas during cooler months. While harmless to humans, their overwhelming numbers and tendency to congregate on buildings, windows, and doors make them a persistent headache. As temperatures drop, these pests seek shelter indoors, exacerbating the issue.
In this article, we dive into the issues caused by boxelder bugs, why they might be attracted to your home and Denver pest management strategies to help you combat the enduring challenges they pose.
What Are Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs, scientifically known as boisea trivittata, are common pests in North America, including Denver. These small insects have black bodies with distinct red markings and will release a pungent odor when disturbed.
During cooler months, boxelder bugs often invade homes seeking shelter, making them quite an annoyance for Denver residents. Although harmless to humans, their presence can be overwhelming and frustrating.
To get rid of boxelder bugs in Denver, preventive measures like sealing cracks and gaps in buildings can be effective. In addition, professional pest control services can help by offering targeted solutions to manage and minimize their intrusion.
Are Boxelder Bugs Dangerous?
If you have boxelder bugs in your home, you may wonder if they're cause for concern. Boxelder bugs are generally considered harmless to humans. They do not pose any direct threat and do not sting or transmit diseases.
Some individuals may even be concerned about a boxelder bug bite. The good news is that boxelder bugs are not aggressive, and their mouthparts are not designed to bite humans. In rare cases where a bite occurs, it is usually accidental and causes only minor irritation or redness.
If you encounter these insects, it's best to avoid handling them, and if accidentally bitten, simply wash the affected area with soap and water as a precautionary measure.
What's Attracting Boxelder Bugs To My Denver Home?
Boxelder bugs gravitate to specific environmental factors that make your Denver home an appealing shelter during cooler months. Identifying these attractions can help you take preventive measures and implement effective boxelder bug control strategies:
- Host Trees: Boxelder bugs infest and feed on boxelder, maple, and ash trees, so having these trees near your home can attract them.
- Warmth: As temperatures drop, boxelder bugs seek warmth, making the sunny sides of buildings, doors, and windows tempting spots to gather.
- Cracks and Gaps: Small openings in the exterior of your home offer easy access for these pests to enter and establish an infestation.
- Overripe Fruits: Fallen or overripe fruits around your property can act as a food source and attract boxelder bugs.
- Vegetation: Tall grass, weeds, and abundant vegetation near your home can create an attractive habitat for these insects.
There are a number of things you can do to prevent a boxelder bug infestation. Continue reading for our expert advice on how to control these pests.
How To Prevent Boxelder Bugs And Other Occasional Invaders
Top-notch boxelder bug treatment and prevention can help keep these persistent insects and other occasional invaders at bay. Here are some practical tips to protect your home:
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks, gaps, and openings in doors, windows, and your foundation to prevent boxelder bugs from infiltrating your home.
- Trim Vegetation: Keep trees, shrubs, and vegetation well-maintained, reducing attractive habitats for boxelder bugs.
- Proper Storage: Store any firewood, mulch, and other organic materials away from the house to discourage infestations.
Relying on professional Denver home pest control assistance is your best bet at eradicating boxelder bugs for good. If you're facing an issue, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Beeline Pest Control. We offer comprehensive solutions and tailored strategies to prevent boxelder bugs and other occasional invaders.
Don't go another day being uncomfortable in your own home; give us a call today!