Boxelder Bug
Boisea trivittata
insectsHow to Identify
Boxelder bugs are about 1/2 inch long with a flattened, elongated shape. They are black with reddish-orange markings on their wings, thorax, and abdomen. Nymphs are bright red.
Signs of Infestation
Large numbers of boxelder bugs congregating on sunny, warm sides of buildings, especially in the fall, is a key sign. You may also find them inside your Myrtle Beach home, clustering around windows and doors, seeking warmth. Crushed bugs can leave reddish-orange stains.
Health Risks
Boxelder bugs do not pose significant health risks. They don't bite or sting, but they can be a nuisance when they enter homes in large numbers, especially in the Grand Strand area. Their droppings can stain fabrics.
Our Treatment Method
MBPC offers exterior perimeter treatments to control boxelder bug populations before they enter your home. Our licensed technicians can apply residual insecticides to building foundations and potential entry points. SC Department of Pesticide Regulation guidelines are followed for safe and effective treatment.
Prevention Tips
Remove boxelder trees from your property if possible. Seal cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and foundations to prevent entry into your Myrtle Beach home. Install door sweeps and window screens to keep them out.
Habitat
Boxelder bugs are commonly found near boxelder trees, their primary food source. They are attracted to sunny, warm surfaces, making homes in Myrtle Beach ideal overwintering spots. The humid subtropical climate and abundance of host trees contribute to their presence along the coast.
Peak activity: Fall-Winter
Identification Photos
Frequently Asked Questions About Boxelder Bug
Boxelder bugs seek warm shelter in the fall as temperatures drop. Your home's sunny side provides a perfect spot to overwinter, which is why you're seeing an influx.
Boxelder bugs primarily feed on boxelder tree seeds. While they may occasionally feed on other plants, they rarely cause significant damage to gardens in Myrtle Beach.
Vacuum them up rather than crushing them to avoid stains. Seal entry points to prevent more from entering. Contact MBPC for a professional perimeter treatment to address the source of the problem around your Grand Strand home.
Boxelder bugs themselves don't damage furniture, but their droppings can stain fabrics and surfaces. Regular cleaning and preventive measures are key to protecting your belongings in coastal SC.
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