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Boxelder Bugs Identification Guide

How to identify boxelder bugs and keep them off your walls and out of your home each fall.

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How to identify

What boxelder bugs look like

Boxelder bugs are black with red or orange lines on the back and wings. Young bugs are bright red.

They feed on boxelder and maple trees and gather in large numbers on sunny walls in fall.

Signs you have boxelder bugs

  • Large clusters on sunny siding in September and October
  • Bugs inside around windows
  • Red-orange stains where bugs are crushed

Are they dangerous?

They do not bite or damage structures, but they invade in large numbers and can stain fabrics and walls.

How to prevent them

  • Seal gaps around windows and siding
  • Keep screens in good repair
  • Exterior treatment timed for late summer

Quick facts

Scientific nameBoisea trivittata
Size11–14 mm
ColourBlack with red-orange markings
Most activeFall
Found inSunny walls, windows, near maple trees
Risk levelLow (nuisance)
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