Why Box Elder Bugs Love Your House (and What to Do About It)

Post: Why Box Elder Bugs Love Your House (and What to Do About It)

Why Box Elder Bugs Love Your House (and What to Do About It)

Box elder bugs are those little red and black insects that often congregate on the sunny sides of homes, especially in the fall. They can be a nuisance, both inside and outside, but understanding why they’re attracted to your house can help you manage them more effectively.

Why Do Box Elder Bugs Gather on Homes?

  1. Warmth: Box elder bugs are cold-blooded insects, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. As the weather cools down in the fall, they seek out warm, sunny places to overwinter. The sides of homes, especially those facing south or west, can provide ideal conditions for these bugs to stay warm and protected.
  2. Shelter: Homes offer a variety of sheltered spaces that box elder bugs can use for hibernation. Cracks, crevices, and gaps around windows, doors, and siding can provide safe havens for these insects.
  3. Food Source: While box elder bugs primarily feed on the seeds and leaves of box elder trees, they may also consume pollen, nectar, and other plant material. Homes can be indirectly associated with food sources, as they may be located near trees or gardens that provide sustenance for these insects.

How to Prevent Box Elder Bugs from Entering Your Home

  • Seal up cracks and crevices: Inspect your home’s exterior for any gaps or openings that box elder bugs can use to enter. Seal these areas with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent them from gaining access.
  • Install screens on windows and doors: Screens can be a simple but effective way to keep box elder bugs out of your home.
  • Remove any box elder trees or shrubs near your home: If you have box elder trees or shrubs growing near your home, consider removing them to reduce the attraction for these insects.
  • Clean up fallen leaves and debris: Box elder bugs may overwinter in fallen leaves and debris. Cleaning up these materials can help to reduce their numbers.
  • Consider using a Protec Pest Control Services: For severe infestations or if you’re unable to control the problem on your own, a professional pest control service can provide effective solutions.

What to Do if You Have a Box Elder Bug Infestation

If you already have a box elder bug infestation, here are some steps you can take:

  • Vacuum up the bugs: Vacuuming is a quick and easy way to remove box elder bugs from your home. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag or canister outside to prevent the bugs from re-entering.
  • Use a sticky trap: Sticky traps can be placed near windows and doors to capture box elder bugs as they attempt to enter your home.
  • Call Protec Pest Control Services

By understanding why box elder bugs are attracted to homes and taking preventive measures, you can significantly reduce their numbers and minimize their impact on your home.

 

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